orderly

[ awr-der-lee ]

adjective

1. arranged or disposed in a neat, tidy manner or in a regular sequence:

   an orderly desk.

   Antonyms: haphazard, disorderly, chaotic

2. observant of or governed by system or method, as persons or the mind.
3. characterized by or observant of law, rule, or discipline; well-behaved; law-abiding:

   an orderly assemblage of citizens.

4. pertaining to or charged with the communication or execution of orders.

adverb

1. methodically; regularly.
2. according to established order or rule.

noun

, plural or·der·lies.

1. Military. an enlisted soldier assigned to perform various chores for a commanding officer or group of officers.
2. a hospital attendant having general, nonmedical duties.

orderly

/ ˈɔːdəlɪ /

adjective

1. in order, properly arranged, or tidy
2. obeying or appreciating method, system, and arrangement
3. harmonious or peaceful
4. military of or relating to orders

   an orderly book

adverb

1. rare.
   according to custom or rule

noun

1. med a male hospital attendant
2. military a junior rank detailed to carry orders or perform minor tasks for a more senior officer

Derived Forms

• ˈorderliness, noun

Other Words From

• order·li·ness noun
• un·order·ly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of orderly¹

First recorded in 1470–80 as adverb; 1570–80 as adjective; 1795–1805 as noun; order + -ly

Synonym Study

Orderly, methodical, systematic characterize that which is neat, in order, and planned. These three words are sometimes used interchangeably. However, orderly emphasizes neatness of arrangement: an orderly array of books. Methodical suggests a logical plan, a definite order of actions or method from beginning to end: a methodical examination. Systematic suggests thoroughness, an extensive and detailed plan, together with regularity of action: a systematic review.

Example Sentences

It wants an orderly compensation system, if it comes to that.

From BBC

Ghana has a reputation for the orderly transfer of power between administrations.

From BBC

“At the same time we need to build a compelling alternative to Trump’s vision of walls, cages and guns, that invests in people’s ability to stay resilient in their communities, and provides safe, orderly pathways to refuge when they cannot.”

From Salon

Even as Trump supporters cite racist theories to justify persecuting people and ignoring the extreme weather caused by climate change, Gaya argued that “climate advocates must also work with migrant justice leaders and climate-displaced people to propose a positive alternative to border militarization that promotes both people's resilience to stay in their homes and orderly, safe pathways to refuge for those who cannot.”

From Salon

During the meeting, Soltanov told the potential sponsor that the aim of the conference was "solving the climate crisis" and "transitioning away from hydrocarbons in a just, orderly and equitable manner".

From BBC

Related Words

• businesslike
• formal
• neat
• precise
• regulated
• scientific
• systematic
• thorough
• tidy