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

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".

From BBC

A spokesperson said a "fair and orderly transition" away from oil and gas would "drive growth".

From BBC

"This judgement assists us by allowing us to do that in a planned and orderly fashion".

From BBC

Following Friday's judgement, the government has underlined it wants to close asylum hotels in an "orderly way", while saying it is working to relieve pressure on the system.

From BBC

Border Security and Asylum Minister Dame Angela Eagle said the Home Office launched this appeal so hotels could be "exited in a controlled and orderly way".

From BBC

Related Words

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