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

Designed for intermediate to advanced players, this paddle uses a performance-quality blade that’s helpful for tournaments. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026

Mercury in your 4th House of Home sextiles Venus in your 6th House of Work and Wellness, helping comfort, routines, and helpful conversations cooperate. — Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 13 Aug. 2026

Time limits, particularly late at night when teens may be more emotionally vulnerable, can be helpful. — Megan Kelly, The Conversation, 13 Aug. 2026

Being behind on payments, then, while not a good thing for your credit or overall financial health, can actually be helpful when trying to qualify for a settlement deal. — Matt Richardson, CBS News, 12 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