helpful

adjective

help·​ful ˈhelp-fəl How to pronounce helpful (audio)
 Southern often  ˈhep-,
 also  ˈheəp-
: of service or assistance : useful
a helpful neighbor
helpful advice
just trying to be helpful
helpfully adverb
helpfulness noun

Examples of helpful in a Sentence

A helpful neighbor shoveled our walkway. a kind and helpful person
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.
The most helpful part of the experience was his support and guidance. Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 28 Oct. 2025 Light-blocking window shades and blackout curtains can be helpful, as can a sleep mask over your eyes. Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 27 Oct. 2025 Those experiences make you uniquely you and skills in other areas can be relevant and helpful. Vicki Salemi, Boston Herald, 26 Oct. 2025 Act now to not miss out on these Amazon outlet deals on timeless clothing items, comfortable shoes, durable luggage, and helpful travel accessories, all for $50 or less. Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 25 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for helpful

Word History

Etymology

see help entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Helpful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/helpful. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

helpful

adjective
help·​ful ˈhelp-fəl How to pronounce helpful (audio)
: providing help
a helpful neighbor
helpfully adverb
helpfulness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on helpful

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!