orderly

American  

[awr-der-lee] / ˈɔr dər li /

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.

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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 British  

/ 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

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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

Related Words

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.

Other Word Forms

• orderliness noun
• unorderly adjective

Etymology

Origin of orderly

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

Example Sentences

Traders said Wednesday’s selling was orderly and showed few signs of panic.

From The Wall Street Journal

What to watch: Valuation sensitivity, AI/datacom demand durability, acquisition integration, and whether momentum remains orderly as volatility rises.

From Barron's

The apartheid government under President F.W. de Klerk dismantled its nuclear weapons and associated facilities in an orderly process—before acceding to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

From The Wall Street Journal

Biery, an appointee of former US President Bill Clinton, said deportations through the US immigration system should occur in a more orderly and humane policy than currently in place.

From BBC

Judge Biery, an appointee of former President Bill Clinton, said deportations through the US immigration system should occur through a more orderly and human policy than currently in place.

From BBC

Related Words

• businesslike
• formal
• neat
• precise
• regulated
• scientific
• systematic
• thorough
• tidy