PROMPTLY

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does promptly mean? 

• PROMPTLY (adverb)
  The adverb PROMPTLY has 3 senses:

1. with little or no delay

2. in a punctual manner

3. at once (usually modifies an undesirable occurrence)

  Familiarity information: PROMPTLY used as an adverb is uncommon.

 Dictionary entry details 

• PROMPTLY (adverb)

Sense 1

Meaning:

With little or no delay

Synonyms:

promptly; quick; quickly

Context example:

come here, quick!

Pertainym:

prompt (ready and willing or quick to act)

Sense 2

Meaning:

In a punctual manner

Synonyms:

promptly; pronto; readily

Context example:

he did his homework promptly

Pertainym:

prompt (according to schedule or without delay; on time)

Sense 3

Meaning:

At once (usually modifies an undesirable occurrence)

Synonyms:

promptly; right away

Context example:

he promptly forgot the address

 Context examples 

Removing the pillow and, repeating the question he answered promptly that he did.

(The Sea-Wolf, by Jack London)

"You shall have it," he answered promptly.

(Martin Eden, by Jack London)

Then he was turned loose, and promptly he disappeared.

(Love of Life and Other Stories, by Jack London)

Promptly at nine o'clock the next morning the green-whiskered soldier came to them, and four minutes later they all went into the Throne Room of the Great Oz.

(The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, by L. Frank Baum)

Finding no one there he promptly rang the bell, and at the instant that he did so his eyes caught the paper upon the table.

(The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

Hans promptly snubbed with the rope, as though Buck were a boat.

(The Call of the Wild, by Jack London)

He knew clearly what was to be done, and this he did by promptly eating the ptarmigan.

(White Fang, by Jack London)

Quietly and promptly the men took their places, lying flat upon their faces on the deck, for such was Sir Nigel's order.

(The White Company, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

"Send Beth and Mother to the seaside for a month or two," answered Jo promptly.

(Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott)

A body temperature below 95° F is a medical emergency and can lead to death if not treated promptly.

(Hypothermia, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)