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

Anyone with information helpful to investigators is asked to call Detective Corporal Alan Cintas at 949-715-1262. — City News Service, Oc Register, 24 July 2026

Knowing what to do before, during and after an earthquake comes can be very helpful. — Andrei Popoviciu, The Dial, 23 July 2026

While Stern was preparing to interview others, AI can also be helpful for job seekers preparing to be interviewed, or for employees trying to summarize lengthy papers or draft presentations, for example. — Sarah Jackson, CNBC, 23 July 2026

Perhaps a hyaluronic acid serum or hydrating face mist could also be helpful supplements. — Rio Viera-Newton, Vogue, 23 July 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