worthwhile

adjective

worth·​while ˈwərth-ˈ(h)wī(-ə)l 

1

: being worth the time or effort spent

worthwhile preparations

2

: worthy sense 1

a worthwhile cause

worthwhileness noun

Examples of worthwhile in a Sentence

The money is for a worthwhile cause.

Seeing my children's joy made building the tree house all worthwhile.

Is it worthwhile to try to fix my computer?

Recent Examples on the Web

Knowing a few specifications for them can help make your purchase worthwhile. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 6 Jan. 2026

Enough variety in the complimentary restaurants, including à la carte dinner menus, yet exciting dining concepts that make speciality dining a worthwhile additional spend. —Chrissie McClatchie, Travel + Leisure, 5 Jan. 2026

As such, taking a mid-morning coffee break to quickly browse your favorite sites may be more than worthwhile! —Sarah Lyon, Southern Living, 3 Jan. 2026

The good news is there are plenty of experts who have proven it possible—and undeniably worthwhile. —Kaitlin Menza, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for worthwhile

• argyle
• awhile
• beguile
• compile
• condyle
• defile
• erstwhile
• exile
• freestyle
• gentile
• hairstyle
• lifestyle

Kids Definition

worthwhile

adjective

worth·​while ˈwərth-ˈhwī(ə)l 

-ˈwī(ə)l

1

: being worth the time or effort spent

worthwhile preparations

2

: worthy sense 1a