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Definition of rightful

rightful

/ˈɹaɪtfəl/
right · ful
Adverb:rightfully
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rightful Lexical Profile

rightful Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having a legitimate, legal, or morally just claim to a position, title, or piece of property.

Example

"The museum agreed to return the ancient artifacts to their rightful owners."

2

Fair, proper, and fitting according to moral standards or natural justice.

Example

"After years of neglect, the historic theater has finally been restored to its rightful place at the heart of the community."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for rightful
Antonyms
View all antonyms for rightful

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'rightful' with 'righteous'; 'rightful' refers to a legitimate, legal, or proper claim to something (as in 'the rightful owner'), whereas 'righteous' describes moral virtue or justifiable anger.

• Rhymes for rightful

• Nearby Words

righteously
righteousness
righteye flounder
rightful
rightfully
rightfulness
righthander

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'rihtful', formed from 'riht' (just, good, fair, or proper) and the adjective suffix '-full'.

Cite this Entry

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