purposeful

adjective

pur·​pose·​ful ˈpər-pəs-fəl 

1

: having a purpose: such as

a

: meaningful

purposeful activities

b

: intentional

purposeful ambiguity

2

: full of determination

was soft-spoken but purposeful

purposefully

ˈpər-pəs-fə-lē 

adverb

purposefulness noun

Synonyms of purposeful

• resolute
• intent
• determined
• decisive
• positive
• confident

Examples of purposeful in a Sentence

a soft-spoken but purposeful criminal investigator

there's a difference between a purposeful lie and an accidental untruth

Recent Examples on the Web

Kemp agrees, saying art lights lend a classic, purposeful element to a space, while small lamps should be sought out equally. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Jan. 2026

This attention to making more purposeful and functional purchases will also be reflected in denim that offers high-comfort performance, breathability and longevity. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 7 Jan. 2026

This is one of the most disciplined and productive expressions of Mars, where action is measured, strategic and purposeful. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 6 Jan. 2026

This is productive, purposeful fire. —Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 30 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined at sense 1