1
proper
/ˈprɑːpɚ/
adjective
Britannica Dictionary definition of PROPER
1
[more proper; most proper]
a
:
correct according to social or moral rules
-
That is not the proper [=acceptable] way to dress for school.
-
It is not proper to speak that way.
-
The children need to learn proper behavior.
-
It would not be proper for you to borrow the ladder without asking first.
b
:
behaving in a way that is correct according to social or moral rules
2
always used before a noun
:
exactly correct
3
always used before a noun
:
right or suitable for some purpose or situation
-
He didn't have the proper [=appropriate] training for the job.
-
You need to eat a proper meal instead of junk food.
-
Each step must be done in the proper order/sequence.
-
You need to get a proper [=real, decent] job.
-
Please put your shoes in their proper place. [=please put your shoes where they belong]
4
always used after a noun
—
used to emphasize that you are referring to the specific thing that is being named
5
always used before a noun,
chiefly British
:
complete or absolute
proper to
formal
:
belonging to or suited to (something)
2
proper
/ˈprɑːpɚ/
adverb
2
proper
/ˈprɑːpɚ/
adverb
Britannica Dictionary definition of PROPER
chiefly British, informal