timely

1 of 2

adjective

time·​ly ˈtīm-lē 

timelier; timeliest

1

: coming early or at the right time

a timely decision

timely payment

2

: appropriate or adapted to the times or the occasion

a timely book

timeliness noun

timely

2 of 2

adverb

1

: in time : opportunely

the question was not … timely raised in the state court

—W. O. Douglas

2

archaic : early, soon

Synonyms

Adjective

• opportune
• seasonable
• well-timed

Examples of timely in a Sentence

Adjective

Her very timely book examines the effects of global warming on the world's climates.

She always responds to my requests in a timely fashion.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The timely and improbably nuanced Donald Trump origins movie, The Apprentice, almost didn’t make it to cinemas in time for the U.S. presidential election. —Patrick Brzeski, The Hollywood Reporter, 9 Oct. 2024

Not least because Western partners like America and Germany haven’t provided sufficient timely support. —Melik Kaylan, Forbes, 9 Oct. 2024

Ongoing Support from Expert Coaches While cutting-edge technology can go a long way toward helping users meet their health goals, there’s nothing like a human coach in your corner, cheering you on and offering timely advice. —Hilary Tetenbaum, USA TODAY, 9 Oct. 2024

During the construction of the Atlanta Olympics venues, early transparency about budget overruns allowed for timely adjustments and alternative solutions. —Sydney Lake, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adverb

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

timely

adjective

time·​ly

ˈtīm-lē

timelier; timeliest

1

: coming early or at the right time

2

: especially suitable for the time

a timely book

timeliness noun

Legal Definition

timely

adjective

time·​ly

ˈtīm-lē

: falling within a prescribed or reasonable time

timely notice

timeliness noun

timely adverb