adjective
seemly
SEEM-lee/ˈsiːmli/
Proper and suited to the occasion.
Offering an older guest a seat is a seemly gesture.
Etymology
The probable Norse ancestor meant 'becoming' or 'honorable.' Its idea of being suited to an occasion or purpose survives in the judgment that someone's conduct is proper and socially acceptable.
In context
It was not seemly—or even possible—to hale Valancy doctorwards by physical force.
More examples
- She chooses a seemly outfit for the memorial service.
- They keep their disagreement within seemly limits.
- He waits for a seemly moment to leave.
Forms
seemly · seemlier · seemliest
seemliness noun — Propriety or suitability in behavior or appearance.
unseemly adjective — Not proper, fitting, or socially acceptable.
Similar words
- proper
- Emphasizes conformity to accepted standards rather than a particular occasion.
- decorous
- Emphasizes dignified, restrained behavior, especially in formal social settings.
- appropriate
- Emphasizes suitability generally, without necessarily implying good manners.