helpful

adjective

help·​ful ˈhelp-fəl 

Southern often ˈhep-

also ˈheəp-

: of service or assistance : useful

a helpful neighbor

helpful advice

just trying to be helpful

helpfully

ˈhelp-fə-lē 

adverb

helpfulness noun

Synonyms of helpful

• useful

Examples of helpful in a Sentence

A helpful neighbor shoveled our walkway.

a kind and helpful person

Recent Examples on the Web

Be precise about what's actually required versus what would be helpful. — Marsha Murray, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026

Joint practices are often as helpful — if not more helpful, players have said — as the preseason games for finding good reps against opponents and truly making strides as a team. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 6 Aug. 2026

The frame and cushions ship separately, which is helpful to know. — Alyssa Marino Williams, Architectural Digest, 6 Aug. 2026

Continuing to dwell on this hurt will not be helpful at this point. — Abigail Van Buren, Boston Herald, 6 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see help entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing helpful

• come in useful/helpful

Rhymes for helpful

• unhelpful

Kids Definition

helpful

adjective

help·​ful ˈhelp-fəl 

: providing help

a helpful neighbor

helpfully

-fə-lē 

adverb

helpfulness noun