duly
|du-ly|
🇺🇸
/ˈduːli/
🇬🇧
/ˈdjuːli/
in a proper / appropriate way
Etymology
'duly' originates from English formation based on the adjective 'due' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'; 'due' originates from Old French 'deu', ultimately from Latin 'debitus', where the Latin root 'debere' meant 'to owe'.
'duly' developed from Middle English use of 'due' (from Old French 'deu' and Latin 'debitus') combined with the suffix '-ly' to form an adverb meaning 'in a due manner', eventually becoming the modern English 'duly'.
Initially related to the idea of something 'owed' or 'due', it evolved to mean 'in a proper, appropriate, or timely manner' in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a proper or appropriate manner; properly.
The documents were duly signed and returned.
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Adverb 2
at the appropriate or appointed time; punctually.
He was duly notified of the meeting.
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Adverb 3
as is right or expected; deservedly or rightly (often in legal or formal contexts).
She was duly rewarded for her efforts.
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Last updated: 2025/09/02 04:13