meaningful

adjective

mean·​ing·​ful ˈmē-niŋ-fəl How to pronounce meaningful (audio)
1
a
: having a meaning or purpose
The tests did not produce any meaningful results.
b
: full of meaning : significant
a meaningful life
a meaningful relationship
2
: having an assigned function in a language system
meaningful propositions
meaningfully adverb
meaningfulness noun

Examples of meaningful in a Sentence

The test did not produce any meaningful results. She looked at him in a meaningful way. He wanted to feel that his job was meaningful. The trip turned out to be very meaningful for both of them.
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.
Instead of prioritizing keyword optimization, strategists should focus on delivering value and addressing user needs in a complete and meaningful way. Kevin Dam, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025 Kurt's key takeaways Restoring natural, expressive speech to people who have lost their voices is one of the most meaningful advances in brain-computer interface technology. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2025 January encourages you to take small, meaningful steps toward the goals that light you up. Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 July 2025 Meghan Markle officially launched the first alcoholic offering of her lifestyle brand, As Ever, debuting its 2023 Napa Valley Rosé on Tuesday — a meaningful date for both her and Prince Harry. Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 1 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for meaningful

Word History

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of meaningful was in 1852

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Cite this Entry

“Meaningful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/meaningful. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

meaningful

adjective
mean·​ing·​ful ˈmē-niŋ-fəl How to pronounce meaningful (audio)
1
: having a meaning or purpose
meaningful work
2
: full of meaning : significant
a meaningful experience
meaningfully adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on meaningful

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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