Pronunciation

/proʊpər/

Definitions

Noun

1. Proper noun: A specific name given to a person, place, or thing, usually capitalized, to distinguish it from others of the same type. For example: “New York is a proper noun.”
2. Proper adjective: An adjective that modifies a noun, usually denoting a unique or distinctive quality, and is capitalized. For example: “The White House is a proper adjective referring to the official residence of the President of the United States.”

Adjective

1. Appropriate or fitting for a particular person, situation, or context. For example: “Wearing formal attire was proper for the wedding ceremony.”

Phrases

• “Her last name is Proper, so she always capitalizes it.”
• “It’s considered impolite to use a proper noun as a verb.”
• “Using a proper title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr.) is proper when addressing someone formally.”

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The artist painted a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, a proper icon in British history.”
• Adjective: “He dressed in a proper manner for the job interview.”
• “In writing, it’s essential to capitalize proper nouns consistently.”

Synonyms

• Specific
• Unique
• Personal
• Correct
• Appropriate
• Designated
• Formal

Note

Proper nouns are not considered separate parts of speech but rather a specific usage of nouns or adjectives. However, the adjective form “proper” is treated separately in this context.