helpful

adjective

help·​ful ˈhelp-fəl How to pronounce helpful (audio)
Southern often ˈhep-
also ˈheəp-
Synonyms of helpfulnext
: 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.
Indeed, Carrick’s ability to be boring should be helpful, as managers are slowly working out that there is almost no value in saying anything interesting in press conferences whatsoever. Michael Cox, New York Times, 3 Feb. 2026 This would be helpful in the eyes of Nick Goodwin, director of government affairs for the health care association, because assisted living is the most affordable form of long-term care but is being stymied by its inclusion on a waitlist with other more expensive forms of care. Kayla Dwyer, IndyStar, 3 Feb. 2026 February 19 – March 20 A simple message could send you down a helpful path. Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 3 Feb. 2026 The store also assists residents who do not have a stable mailing address, making walk-in service especially helpful for unhoused individuals or those living in transitional housing. William Jones, Sacbee.com, 3 Feb. 2026 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 5 Feb. 2026.

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
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