squarely

square +‎ -ly. First use appears c. 1557 in the writings of Robert Recorde.

• (UK) IPA^(key): /ˈskwɛə(ɹ).li/
• (US) IPA^(key): /ˈskwɛɹ.li/
• Rhymes: -ɛə(ɹ)li
• Hyphenation: square‧ly

squarely (comparative more squarely, superlative most squarely)

1. (geometry) In the shape of a square; at right angles.
2. (also figurative) Firmly and solidly.
   • 2021 August 16, Michael D. Shear, David E. Sanger, quoting Joe Biden, “Biden stands behind Afghan withdrawal, despite ‘hard and messy’ final days.”, in The New York Times‎, →ISSN:

     “I stand squarely behind my decision,” he said, adding that he would not “shrink from my share of responsibility for where we are today.”

3. (figurative) In a direct, straightforward and honest manner.
   • 2021 August 16, Michael D. Shear, David E. Sanger, “Biden stands behind Afghan withdrawal, despite ‘hard and messy’ final days.”, in The New York Times‎, →ISSN:

     But Republicans placed the blame squarely on Mr. Biden.

• fairly and squarely