properly

adverb

prop·​er·​ly ˈprä-pər-lē How to pronounce properly (audio)
: 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

Examples of properly in a Sentence

the scouts were properly dressed for a week of camping
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Note that yogurt can still be enjoyed past the sell-by and use-by dates if stored properly. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 18 May 2025 The Dyneema Composite Fabric 8 (DCF 8) tub floor extends 9 inches (23 cm) in height to better protect from blowing rain and ground water, while the properly tiny holes of the no-see-um mesh keep even minuscule gnats and biting midges out while letting air circulate freely. New Atlas, 17 May 2025 Dehydration If not treated properly, excessive thirst and urination (both common signs of diabetes) can lead to dehydration. Daniel Combs, Verywell Health, 16 May 2025 A bit of Cannes social topography is required to understand this properly. Guy Martin, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for properly

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of properly was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Properly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/properly. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on properly

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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