squarely

adverb

square·​ly ˈskwer-lē How to pronounce squarely (audio)
Synonyms of squarelynext
1
: in a straightforward or honest manner
we must squarely face the issue
2
a
: exactly, precisely
squarely in the middle
b
: so as to make solid contact
hit the ball squarely
feet squarely planted
3
: in a square form or manner : so as to be square
a squarely cut dress
4
: in a plain or unequivocal manner
The responsibility lies squarely with us.
align ourselves squarely with our allies

Synonyms of squarely

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Examples of squarely in a Sentence

We must face these problems squarely. It's time to deal squarely with the facts. literature that is squarely in the American tradition Their marketing campaign is aimed squarely at adolescents. The dart hit the board squarely in the middle. Look me squarely in the eye and tell me you're not lying. He hit the ball squarely. Her feet were squarely planted.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Unveiled by Cessna owner Textron Aviation in 2024, the CJ3 Gen3 sits squarely between the entry-level M2 Gen3 and the range-topping CJ4 Gen3. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 30 July 2026 With their latest partnerships, DAZN has now landed squarely in that mix as well. — Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 30 July 2026 The prospectus attributes the first-quarter loss squarely to slowing sales after the exemption's removal, plus a one-time accounting charge. — Drew Bernstein, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 Keeping with the dark vibes, makeup artist Ernesto Casillas kept the focus squarely on Zendaya's eyes, creating a lightly smoky effect with Prada Beauty Dimensions Eyeshadow in Profusion and Primula. — Marci Robin, Allure, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for squarely

Word History

First Known Use

1564, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of squarely was in 1564

Rhymes for squarely

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Browse Nearby Words

square-lipped rhinoceros
squarely
squareman
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Cite this Entry

“Squarely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/squarely. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

squarely

adverb
square·​ly
1
: in a plain or honest manner
we must squarely face the problem
2
a
: exactly sense 1a, precisely
squarely in the middle
b
: so as to make solid contact
hit the ball squarely
3
: in a square form or manner : so as to be square
a squarely cut dress

More from Merriam-Webster on squarely

Nglish: Translation of squarely for Spanish Speakers

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