rightfully

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English

Etymology

From Middle English ryghtefully, equivalent to rightful +‎ -ly.

Pronunciation

  • IPA(key): /ˈɹaɪtfəli/
  • Audio (US):(file)
  • Rhymes: -aɪtfəli

Adverb

rightfully (comparative more rightfully, superlative most rightfully)

  1. In accordance with what is right or just; fairly.
    • 1859, John Stuart Mill, “Introductory”, in On Liberty, London: John W Parker and Son, , →OCLC, page 22:
      he only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others. His own good, either physical or moral, is not a sufficient warrant.
  2. Rightly, correctly.