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

That these images aren’t used to elicit sorrow or righteous anger isn’t a problem in and of itself; rather, the issue is that they aren’t substituted with worthwhile alternatives that stir one’s soul, or one’s moral compass. —Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 14 Mar. 2026

Metchie was a worthwhile swing, and Pickett can do the job he’s signed up for with limited drama. —Mike Kaye march 12, Charlotte Observer, 12 Mar. 2026

But niches can be worthwhile in themselves, especially if they are connected to a longstanding cultural tradition, and have the self-confidence to innovate. —Andrew Silow-Carroll, Sun Sentinel, 11 Mar. 2026

Focusing on making your sleep better and more consistent is wise and worthwhile. —Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 11 Mar. 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