Meaning & Definition of word "Rightful"

Rightful

/ˈraɪtfəl/

adjective:

  • 1. Having a legitimate claim or right to something.
    • Example: She is the rightful heir to the estate.
  • 2. Just, proper, or in accordance with what is right.
    • Example: It is her rightful place to lead the team.
  • 3. Legally entitled to possession or authority.
    • Example: The rightful owner of the painting was finally identified.
  • 4. Correctly or justifiably attributed.
    • Example: The award was given to its rightful recipient.

Etymology

Middle English 'rihtful', from Old English 'riht' + '-ful'

Common Phrases and Expressions

rightful owner:

The legal or rightful possessor of an item or property.

rightful place:

The position where someone or something rightly belongs.

Related Words

right:

A moral or legal entitlement to have or do something.

justice:

The quality of being fair and reasonable.

entitlement:

The fact of having a right to something.

Slang Meanings of rightful