timely

1 of 2

adjective

time·​ly ˈtīm-lē How to pronounce timely (audio)
timelier; timeliest
Synonyms of timelynext
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

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
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Adjective
The resurgent Rockies held on to beat the Mets, 4-3, at Citi Field on Friday night behind a terrific start from Michael Lorenzen and some timely hits. Patrick Saunders, Denver Post, 25 Apr. 2026 The 25 counts sustained by a subcommittee include persistent violations of laws requiring timely, accurate disclosure of campaign funds and personal finances. Orlando Sentinel, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 Apr. 2026 Behind a sharp curve ball and some timely small-ball with an occasional big hit mixed in, Mission Viejo’s baseball team took a huge step toward winning the Sea View League title Wednesday. Martin Henderson, Oc Register, 23 Apr. 2026 Featuring Luca Marinelli’s captivating performance, the miniseries examines the allure of authoritarianism and the corrupting nature of absolute power, a timely reflection on political dynamics. Patrick Hipes, Deadline, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for timely

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of timely was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Timely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/timely. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

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

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