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Definition of duly

duly

/ˈduː.li/
du · ly
Adjective:due
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duly Lexical Profile

duly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In accordance with what is required, expected, or appropriate; in a proper or formal manner.

Example

"The contract was duly signed and witnessed by all parties involved."

2

At the proper, expected, or appointed time; punctually.

Example

"The morning express train duly arrived at the platform at eight o'clock."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Watch the spelling: unlike most adverbs ending in '-ly', 'duly' drops the silent 'e' from the root adjective 'due' (similar to 'truly' and 'wholly').

• Rhymes for duly

• Nearby Words

dully
dulse
duluth
duly
dumas
dumb
dumbass

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'dueli', formed from the adjective 'due' (from Old French 'deu', ultimately from Latin 'debitus', meaning 'owed') plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Duly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/duly
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