assistance

noun

as·​sis·​tance ə-ˈsi-stən(t)s How to pronounce assistance (audio)
: the act of helping or assisting someone or the help supplied : aid
financial and technical assistance
Can I be of any assistance? [=can I help you?]

Examples of assistance in a Sentence

Any assistance you can give me would be appreciated. I'll be happy to provide you with whatever assistance you may need.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Chase decided to repurpose an existing golf tournament presented by his workplace, the San Diego Financial Literacy Center, to honor Keri and raise awareness and funds to provide financial and educational assistance to help make screenings available to more people. Ashley MacKin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Oct. 2025 State helps cover low-income residents' utility bills Wisconsin's low-income energy assistance program is now accepting applications despite federal funding uncertainty. Francesca Pica, jsonline.com, 9 Oct. 2025 Importantly, Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s Bystander Intervention and Good Samaritan policies are designed to ensure that members feel empowered and protected when calling for medical assistance. Judy L. Thomas, Kansas City Star, 9 Oct. 2025 Fineas Tatar, productivity expert and cofounder of the remote assistance services firm, Viva gave Fortune some tips. Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for assistance

Word History

Etymology

Middle English assistence, assistance, borrowed from Anglo-French, borrowed from Medieval Latin assistentia "presence, participation, guidance," going back to Late Latin, "aid," noun derivative of Latin assistent-, assistens, present participle of assistere "to take up a position near, stand by, stand by as a supporter or advocate" — more at assist entry 1

Note: In the case of both this word and assistant Modern English has chosen the French form with -a- in the suffix rather than Latin -e-.

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of assistance was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Assistance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/assistance. Accessed 14 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

assistance

noun
as·​sis·​tance ə-ˈsis-tən(t)s How to pronounce assistance (audio)
: the act of assisting
also : the help given

More from Merriam-Webster on assistance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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