timely Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite before a time limit expires
    • the timely filing of his income tax return
  2. adjective satellite done or happening at the appropriate or proper time
    well-timed; well timed; seasonable.
    • a timely warning
    • with timely treatment the patient has a good chance of recovery
    • a seasonable time for discussion
    • the book's publication was well timed
  3. adverb at an opportune time
    seasonably; well-timed; apropos.
    • your letter arrived apropos

WordNet

Time"ly adjective
Wordforms
comparative Timelier ; superlative Timeliest
Definitions
  1. Being or occurring in good time; sufficiently early; seasonable.
    "The timely dew of sleep." Milton.
  2. Keeping time or measure. Spenser.
Time"ly adverb
Definitions
  1. Early; soon; in good season.
    Timely advised, the coming evil shun. Prior.
    Thanks to you, That called me timelier than my purpose hither, For I have gained by it. Shak.

Webster 1913