worthwhile

adjective

worth·​while ˈwərth-ˈ(h)wī(-ə)l How to pronounce worthwhile (audio)
Synonyms of worthwhilenext
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
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.
Reporting the weight of plastic is no longer worthwhile. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2026 Many food establishments around the country nonetheless deemed the sacrifice worthwhile today, joining a nationwide strike against ICE’s mass deportations and violence against protesters in Minneapolis and across the country. Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Jan. 2026 Austin Mayor Kirk Watson said on Friday those disruptions are worthwhile in order to invest in downtown. Alex Driggars, Austin American Statesman, 30 Jan. 2026 When achieving the summit or the darkest depths becomes essential to self-worth, death can become a worthwhile risk for an extreme adventurer. Christopher Ferguson, Big Think, 29 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for worthwhile

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of worthwhile was in 1662

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Cite this Entry

“Worthwhile.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/worthwhile. Accessed 5 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

worthwhile

adjective
worth·​while ˈwərth-ˈhwī(ə)l How to pronounce worthwhile (audio)
-ˈwī(ə)l
1
: being worth the time or effort spent
worthwhile preparations
2

More from Merriam-Webster on worthwhile

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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