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Definition of rightfully

rightfully

/ˈɹaɪtfəli/
right · ful · ly
Adjective:rightful
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rightfully Lexical Profile

rightfully Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In accordance with what is legally, morally, or legitimately right; by valid claim or entitlement.

Example

"After years of legal disputes, the historic artwork was returned to the family to whom it rightfully belonged."

2

For a good, valid, or justifiable reason; as is deserved or fitting.

Example

"She was rightfully proud of her research team after their study was published in a leading scientific journal."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

"Rightfully" is often compared with "rightly"; while both can mean "justifiably," "rightfully" more specifically emphasizes a legitimate legal, moral, or inherited entitlement (e.g., "the property that is rightfully hers"), whereas "rightly" means "correctly" or "properly."

• Rhymes for rightfully

• Nearby Words

righteousness
righteye flounder
rightful
rightfully
rightfulness
righthander
rightism

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English "rightfully," derived from Old English "rihtfullice," combining "rihtful" (just, lawful) with the adverbial suffix "-lice" (-ly).

Cite this Entry

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