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

In fact, the disagreement is what could have made the discussion worthwhile. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 13 Aug. 2026

Its novelty keeps Marvel Tokon from being too familiar, cementing it as a worthwhile title in its own right. — Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 11 Aug. 2026

For professional coaches, these moments are often the ones that make all the effort, patience and reflection feel worthwhile. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Dogs spend a significant portion of their day resting, which is why supportive bedding can be a worthwhile investment, particularly for aging dogs, larger breeds or pets that love long afternoon naps. — Kasey Caminiti, USA Today, 9 Aug. 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