1. Correct or appropriate: This is the most common meaning. It means something is done in the right way or is suitable for the situation.
* Examples:
* "Did you put the dishes away properly?" (meaning: did you put them in the right place, clean and in order?)
* "It's not proper to talk with your mouth full." (meaning: it's considered rude)
2. Belonging to or characteristic of a particular kind or class: This means something is typical or representative of something else.
* Examples:
* "This is a proper coffee cup, not a mug." (meaning: it's made for drinking coffee, not other things)
* "That's a proper Christmas tree, it's tall and full of ornaments." (meaning: it's typical of a traditional Christmas tree)
3. Thoroughly or completely: This means something is done to the fullest extent or with a lot of care.
* Examples:
* "I need to have a proper think about this decision." (meaning: I need to think about it carefully and thoroughly)
* "We need to have a proper conversation about this." (meaning: we need to talk about it openly and honestly)
4. Real or genuine: This meaning emphasizes the authenticity or true nature of something.
* Examples:
* "Is that a proper diamond ring or just cubic zirconia?" (meaning: is it actually a real diamond?)
* "He's a proper comedian, he's funny and makes people laugh." (meaning: he's truly a comedian, not just someone who pretends to be)
It's important to consider the context of the word "proper" to understand its specific meaning in a given sentence.