rightfully
adverbattested in dialogue
- //ˈɹaɪtfəli//
In accordance with what is right or just.
adverb
- 1
In accordance with what is right or just.
Near-synonym: fairly
[T]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.
Ne euer will it [King Arthur's sword] breake, ne euer bend. / Wherefore Morddure it rightfully is hight.
Etymology
From Middle English ryghtefully, equivalent to rightful + -ly.
Forms
- comparative
- more rightfully
- superlative
- most rightfully