Orderly

Pronunciation

• GenAm IPA: /ˈɔɹdÉšli/
• RP IPA: /ˈɔːdÉ™li/
• Hyphenation: or + der + ly

Alternative forms

• ordrely obsolete

Origin

From order + -ly.

Full definition of orderly

Adjective

1. Neat and tidy; possessing order.He has always kept an orderly kitchen, with nothing out of place.
2. Methodical or systematic.We live in an orderly universe, where rules govern both the movements of planets and the binding of molecules.
3. Peaceful; well-behaved.An orderly gathering of citizens stood on the corner awaiting the bus.
4. Being on duty; keeping order; conveying orders.
• Sir Walter Scottaids-de-camp and orderly men

Derived terms

• orderliness

Noun

1. A hospital attendant given a variety of non-medical duties.
2. A soldier who carries out minor tasks for a superior officer.

Adverb

1. (now rare) According to good order or practice; appropriately, in a well-behaved way. from 15th c.
• ShakespeareYou are blunt; go to it orderly.
2. (obsolete) In order; in a particular order or succession; with a suitable arrangement. 15th-19th c.
• 1603, John Florio, translating Michel de Montaigne, Essays, II.12:Thus orderly marshaled, they take their course and swim whither their journey tends, as broad and wide behind as before ....
• 1624, John Smith, Generall Historie, in Kupperman 1988, p. 149:And in the Tombe which is an arch made of mats, they lay them orderly.