properly

adverb

prop·​er·​ly ˈprä-pər-lē 

: in a proper manner:

a

: in an acceptable or suitable way

behaving properly

trying to get the system to work properly

"Oh yes, I am not at all ashamed of it. I would have everybody marry if they can do it properly."

—Jane Austen

b

: in an accurate or correct way

It might more properly be termed a musical device than a musical form.

—Aaron Copland

Scoop out the seeds (properly called arils, a botanical term that includes the tiny actual seeds and the juicy, edible pulp around them).

—David Karp

Synonyms of properly

• correctly
• appropriately

Examples of properly in a Sentence

the scouts were properly dressed for a week of camping

Recent Examples on the Web

Additionally, the lawsuit alleges Sheriff’s deputies failed to properly search and screen for contraband in the jail, and failed to observe and supervise inmates. —Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 11 Nov. 2025

In fact, doing it properly is an art form of sorts, with layering requiring the right mix of textures, metals, and ring thicknesses to build out a covetable final look that doesn’t feel burdensome on your finger. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 11 Nov. 2025

Unlike gasoline diesel, and other chemicals, natural uranium ore poses minimal risk if handled properly. —Arlyssa D. Becenti, AZCentral.com, 11 Nov. 2025

Moreover, peacetime regulations in Europe prevent much of the equipment from being used properly. —Jack Watling, Foreign Affairs, 11 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for properly

• improperly

Kids Definition

properly

adverb

prop·​er·​ly

ˈpräp-ər-lē

1

: in a fit or suitable way

behave properly in church

2

: according to fact : correctly

properly labeled goods

properly speaking, whales are not fish