I. -lē, -li adjective
( usually -er/-est )
Etymology: Middle English semelich, semely, from Old Norse sœmiligr, from sœmr becoming + -ligr -ly — more at seem
1.
a. : good-looking , handsome
endowed with a delicate physique, a seemly appearance, and a subtle intelligence — Harry Levin
b. : having properties pleasing to the eye : agreeably fashioned or proportioned
the redeveloped city may well be beautiful, but the planners are determined that it shall at least be seemly — S.P.B.Mais
2. : conforming to accepted standards of good form or taste : proper
the company of those whose morals and behavior are less seemly than his own — E.M.Lustgarten
3. : suited to the occasion, purpose, or person : fit
a seemly military escort drew near from the direction of the post — Owen Wister
Synonyms: see decorous
II. adverb
( usually -er/-est )
Etymology: Middle English semely, from Old Norse sœmiliga becomingly, from sœmiligr becoming
1. archaic : in an attractive manner : pleasingly
2. archaic : in a fitting manner : appropriately , becomingly