rightfully
UK: ˈraɪtfəli | US: ˈraɪtfəli
adv. in accordance with what is just, legal, or deserved
adv. properly; correctly
The word "rightfully" combines "rightful," derived from Old English rihtful (meaning "just" or "lawful"), with the adverbial suffix "-ly." "Rightful" itself stems from "right" (Old English riht, meaning "straight, just, correct") + "-ful" (a suffix indicating "full of"). The suffix "-ly" transforms adjectives into adverbs, denoting manner or quality. Over time, "rightfully" evolved to emphasize actions done justly or in accordance with entitlement.
She was rightfully awarded the prize for her groundbreaking research.
The land was rightfully returned to its original owners.
He rightfully claimed his inheritance after proving his identity.
The judge ruled that the defendant was rightfully acquitted.
They rightfully demanded an apology for the unfair treatment.