orderly
Americanadjective
-
arranged or disposed in a neat, tidy manner or in a regular sequence.
an orderly desk.
- Antonyms:
- haphazard, disorderly, chaotic
-
observant of or governed by system or method, as persons or the mind.
-
characterized by or observant of law, rule, or discipline; well-behaved; law-abiding.
an orderly assemblage of citizens.
-
pertaining to or charged with the communication or execution of orders.
adverb
-
methodically; regularly.
-
according to established order or rule.
noun
plural
orderlies-
Military. an enlisted soldier assigned to perform various chores for a commanding officer or group of officers.
-
a hospital attendant having general, nonmedical duties.
adjective
-
in order, properly arranged, or tidy
-
obeying or appreciating method, system, and arrangement
-
harmonious or peaceful
-
military of or relating to orders
an orderly book
adverb
noun
-
med a male hospital attendant
-
military a junior rank detailed to carry orders or perform minor tasks for a more senior officer
Related Words
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.
Other Word Forms
- orderliness noun
- unorderly adjective
Etymology
Origin of orderly
First recorded in 1470–80 as adverb; 1570–80 as adjective; 1795–1805 as noun; order + -ly
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“Given that pressure on inflation originates externally, the first priority should be to provide targeted liquidity support to preserve orderly market functioning.”
The outer perimeter parking lots seemed orderly when a Wall Street Journal reporter recently visited.
Under the order, a committee has been formed to oversee the orderly distribution of fuel, food, medicines, and other essential goods.
From BBC
Unlike most galaxies, the stars in the SMC do not move in orderly orbits around the center, leaving scientists searching for an explanation.
From Science Daily
It’s at once orderly and disorienting, as though following a plan drawn by M.C.
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
