orderly

[ awr-der-lee ]
/ ˈɔr dər li /

adjective

adverb

methodically; regularly.
according to established order or rule.

noun, plural or·der·lies.

Military. an enlisted soldier assigned to perform various chores for a commanding officer or group of officers.
a hospital attendant having general, nonmedical duties.

Origin of orderly

1470–80 as adv.; 1570–80 as adj.; 1795–1805 as noun; order + -ly

SYNONYMS FOR orderly

1, 2 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 WORDS FROM orderly

or·der·li·ness, noun un·or·der·ly, adjective

Example sentences from the Web for orderly

British Dictionary definitions for orderly

orderly
/ (ˈɔːdəlɪ) /

adjective

adverb

rare according to custom or rule

noun plural -lies

med a male hospital attendant
military a junior rank detailed to carry orders or perform minor tasks for a more senior officer

Derived forms of orderly

orderliness, noun

Medical definitions for orderly

orderly
[ ôrdər-lē ]

n.

An attendant in a hospital.