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 of timely

Adjective

• seasonable
• opportune
• appropriate
• proper
• anticipated
• well-timed
• expected
• relevant
• suitable
• pertinent

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

Amber Heard makes an unexpected appearance in a timely new documentary premiering at the Sundance Film Festival, about accused men weaponizing defamation lawsuits to silence women speaking out about abuse. —Matt Donnelly, Variety, 24 Jan. 2026

Clear provisions can require timely evaluations, ensure continuity of care and set a process when parents disagree. —Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 Jan. 2026

The Traitors is a timely reminder of the potency of event television when there is so much handwringing about the medium being in terminal decline. —Jake Kanter, Deadline, 24 Jan. 2026

Oettinger made a few timely saves down the stretch, finishing with 20 on the night. —Lia Assimakopoulos, Dallas Morning News, 24 Jan. 2026

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

Rhymes for timely

• sublimely
• untimely

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