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

They said the country had been prepared for the announcement of the election results after what it described as an "orderly and peaceful" process.

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The Home Office said the judgment allowed it to work to close every asylum hotel in an "orderly, planned and sustained programme".

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Our intention was never confrontation but reform; never escalation but the orderly unification of the forces that defend Sudan.

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It was orderly and full of purpose, much like the Swanburne Academy, if Swanburne had been a boat full of Norwegian fishermen instead of a school full of Poor Bright Females.

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Then he wheeled and walked off without so much as a good-bye, but with two orderly columns of beagles marching in step behind him.

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Related Words

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