worthwhile

adjective

worth·​while ˈwərth-ˈ(h)wī(-ə)l 

1

: being worth the time or effort spent

worthwhile preparations

2

: worthy sense 1

a worthwhile cause

worthwhileness noun

Examples of worthwhile in a Sentence

The money is for a worthwhile cause.

Seeing my children's joy made building the tree house all worthwhile.

Is it worthwhile to try to fix my computer?

Recent Examples on the Web

Scourton, who is tied for the team lead with three sacks on the season, doesn’t think Victory Monday is a worthwhile excuse for the loss to the Saints. —Charlotte Observer, 10 Nov. 2025

Gomes also expresses that rather than keying in on the designers that Talley had a longstanding relationship with within an exhibit, settling on a larger theme, the breadth of experiences, clothing, images, stories, and also paraphernalia associated with Talley was more worthwhile. —Essence, 4 Nov. 2025

Only worthwhile markdowns are featured here, prioritizing value and dependable brands. —PC Magazine, 4 Nov. 2025

Barile said the acquisition remains a worthwhile path forward for Gildan. —Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 3 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for worthwhile

• argyle
• awhile
• beguile
• compile
• condyle
• defile
• erstwhile
• exile
• freestyle
• gentile
• hairstyle
• lifestyle

Kids Definition

worthwhile

adjective

worth·​while ˈwərth-ˈhwī(ə)l 

-ˈwī(ə)l

1

: being worth the time or effort spent

worthwhile preparations

2

: worthy sense 1a