Timely
/ˈtaɪmli/noun
Occurring at the right or appropriate time; opportune.
Did you know?“Timely” comes from the same Proto-Indo-European root *dyeu- / *dei- family that gave English words tied to the passing of time and natural cycles, linking it to the old idea that time is something that flows like a living rhythm.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*dyeu-
“to shine; sky, daylight”
Old English
OE
tīma
“a time, season, or suitable occasion”
Old English
OE
tīmlic
“timely; seasonable; fitting”
Middle English
ME
timely
“seasonable, occurring at the proper time”
Modern English
English
timely
“happening at the right or appropriate time”