rightful

[rahyt-fuh l] /ˈraɪt fəl/
adjective
1.
having a valid or just claim, as to some property or position; legitimate:
the rightful owner of the farm.
2.
belonging or held by a valid or just claim:
one's rightful property.
3.
equitable or just, as actions or a cause.
4.
proper; appropriate; fitting.
Origin
before 1150; Middle English; late Old English rihtful; see right (noun), -ful
Related forms
rightfully, adverb
rightfulness, noun
unrightful, adjective
unrightfully, adverb
unrightfulness, noun
Can be confused
right, righteous, rightful (see usage note at right)
Examples from the web for rightful
  • Tina is keeper of the hens, who consider her garden their rightful domain.
  • It would be better to keep our mouths closed at his rightful criticism, than to open them.
  • Science has a rightful place alongside those elements of culture, because it too is vital to a full and rich life.
  • The whole idea of returning property to its rightful owners in wartime was unprecedented.
  • These days, the idea that tradition has a rightful claim on the university has little support.
  • It is great to see his work being given its rightful due.
  • And they gave it a shot to bring that into its rightful place.
  • Most grantees did nothing but still considered themselves the rightful owners.
  • Now what you need to do is put him back into his rightful position which is under you and your husband.
  • He jerks around wide-eyed and winds up as if to return the hat to its rightful owner.
British Dictionary definitions for rightful

rightful

/ˈraɪtfʊl/
adjective
1.
in accordance with what is right; proper or just
2.
(prenominal) having a legally or morally just claim: the rightful owner
3.
(prenominal) held by virtue of a legal or just claim: my rightful property
Derived Forms
rightfully, adverb
rightfulness, noun
Word Origin and History for rightful
adj.

Old English rihtful; see right (adj.1) + -ful. Related: Rightfully; rightfulness.