resourceful

adjective

re·​source·​ful ri-ˈsȯrs-fəl 

-ˈzȯrs-

: able to meet situations : capable of devising ways and means

a resourceful leader

resourcefully

ri-ˈsȯrs-fə-lē 

-ˈzȯrs-

adverb

resourcefulness noun

Examples of resourceful in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

His escape highlighted both the intelligence of octopuses and the challenges of keeping such resourceful animals in captivity. —Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 20 Apr. 2026

Its last transit, 1929–1943, overlapped with the Great Depression, when economic hardship forced societies to become more resourceful and disciplined. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 10 Apr. 2026

Spiders are among Earth’s most resourceful predators, nabbing prey by any means necessary. —Matthew Cordes, The Conversation, 6 Apr. 2026

Part resourceful Southern cuisine, part comfort home cooking, this classic dish is a hug in a bowl. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 5 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1808, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for resourceful

• forceful
• remorseful

Kids Definition

resourceful

adjective

re·​source·​ful ri-ˈsōrs-fəl 

-ˈsȯrs-, 

-ˈzōrs-, 

-ˈzȯrs-

: able to deal well with new or difficult situations

resourcefully

-fə-lē 

adverb

resourcefulness noun