squarely

adverb

square·​ly ˈskwer-lē 

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

• right
• just

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

However, a source familiar with the situation told Sportico that the NCAA is not currently part of the latest funding discussions, which are focused squarely on the Pentagon. — Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 12 Oct. 2026

But Candle House has also come up with stories squarely in the realm of realism — which also, by the way, follows in the footsteps of Rod Serling. — Chris Willman, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026

Bryant had one of the best training camps of any Denver player and worked his way squarely into the Broncos’ wide receiver rotation. — Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 9 Oct. 2026

Injuries tend to be random, so Motley hopes the assortment of knee, ankle and foot concerns that have bedeviled him are squarely in the past. — Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1564, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for squarely

• unfairly
• barely
• fairly
• rarely

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