helpful

adjective

help·​ful ˈhelp-fəl How to pronounce helpful (audio)
 Southern often  ˈhep-,
 also  ˈheəp-
: of service or assistance : useful
a helpful neighbor
helpful advice
just trying to be helpful
helpfully adverb
helpfulness noun

Examples of helpful in a Sentence

A helpful neighbor shoveled our walkway. a kind and helpful person
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.
Here’s where a large mirror display can be helpful in an open floor space: to set off a bar. Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 July 2025 Also, cell phone chargers for automobiles can be helpful after the storm. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 5 July 2025 These and other helpful travel accessories are on sale ahead of Prime Day, including portable chargers, packing cubes, and more. Aly Walansky, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2025 Miss Manners agrees that ultimatums with friends can be awkward, but in this case, a time limit would have been helpful. Judith Martin, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for helpful

Word History

Etymology

see help entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of helpful was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Helpful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/helpful. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

helpful

adjective
help·​ful ˈhelp-fəl How to pronounce helpful (audio)
: providing help
a helpful neighbor
helpfully adverb
helpfulness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on helpful

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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