meaningful

1 of 2

adjective

mean·​ing·​ful ˈmē-niŋ-fəl 

1

a

: having a meaning or purpose

The tests did not produce any meaningful results.

b

: full of meaning : significant

a meaningful life

a meaningful relationship

2

: having an assigned function in a language system

meaningful propositions

meaningfully

ˈmē-niŋ-fə-lē 

adverb

meaningfulness noun

meaningfulness

2 of 2

noun

mean·​ing·​ful·​ness

plural -es

: the quality or state of being meaningful

Synonyms of meaningful

Adjective

• suggestive
• eloquent
• expressive
• revealing
• meaning

Examples of meaningful in a Sentence

Adjective

The test did not produce any meaningful results.

She looked at him in a meaningful way.

He wanted to feel that his job was meaningful.

The trip turned out to be very meaningful for both of them.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Morgan Stanley highlighted 14 stocks that the firm's analysts believe have near-term catalysts capable of driving meaningful share-price moves. — Deena Zaidi, CNBC, 21 Oct. 2026

Each room centers on at least one meaningful possession of Corcoran’s, surrounded by custom seating, cheerful window treatments and wall coverings, warm pools of lamplight, and an artful mix of antiques. — David Foxley, Architectural Digest, 21 Oct. 2026

But while brands have learned how to make Ramadan and Lunar New Year meaningful moments in their marketing calendars, Diwali is still a work in progress. — Sujata Assomull, Vogue, 21 Oct. 2026

The Warriors are hoping to give Steph Curry one more meaningful season before his career winds down. — Outkick, FOXNews.com, 21 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1852, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

meaningful

adjective

mean·​ing·​ful ˈmē-niŋ-fəl 

1

: having a meaning or purpose

meaningful work

2

: full of meaning : significant

a meaningful experience

meaningfully

-fə-lē 

adverb