orderly

[awr-der-lee]

adjective

1. arranged or disposed in a neat, tidy manner or in a regular sequence.

   an orderly desk.

   Antonyms: haphazard, disorderly, chaotic

2. observant of or governed by system or method, as persons or the mind.

3. characterized by or observant of law, rule, or discipline; well-behaved; law-abiding.

   an orderly assemblage of citizens.

4. pertaining to or charged with the communication or execution of orders.

adverb

1. methodically; regularly.

2. according to established order or rule.

noun

plural

orderlies 

1. Military.,  an enlisted soldier assigned to perform various chores for a commanding officer or group of officers.

2. a hospital attendant having general, nonmedical duties.

orderly

/ ˈɔːdəlɪ /

adjective

1. in order, properly arranged, or tidy

2. obeying or appreciating method, system, and arrangement

3. harmonious or peaceful

4. military of or relating to orders

   an orderly book

adverb

1. rare,  according to custom or rule

noun

1. med a male hospital attendant

2. military a junior rank detailed to carry orders or perform minor tasks for a more senior officer

Other Word Forms

• orderliness noun
• unorderly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of orderly¹

First recorded in 1470–80 as adverb; 1570–80 as adjective; 1795–1805 as noun; order + -ly

Synonym Study

Orderly, methodical, systematic characterize that which is neat, in order, and planned. These three words are sometimes used interchangeably. However, orderly emphasizes neatness of arrangement: an orderly array of books. Methodical suggests a logical plan, a definite order of actions or method from beginning to end: a methodical examination. Systematic suggests thoroughness, an extensive and detailed plan, together with regularity of action: a systematic review.

Example Sentences

However, he argued Macron should avert the crisis by naming a prime minister who could put through a budget, guarantee the continued workings of the state, and leave in an "orderly manner".

Read more on BBC

It is a strange space, an orderly progression toward an otherworldly infinity without any horizon.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

"All personnel at the scene are safe, and local authorities have completed on-site emergency measures in an orderly manner," it added.

Read more on BBC

Seven days ago there was an ambition that week one of "phase two" might be an orderly start to the term.

Read more on BBC

Border Security and Asylum Minister Dame Angela Eagle said the latest judgement would assist the government in ending the use of hotels in a "planned and orderly fashion".

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• businesslike 
• formal 
• neat 
• precise 
• regulated www.thesaurus.com
• scientific 
• systematic 
• thorough 
• tidy