helpful

adjective

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

Synonyms of helpful

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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.
Removable cushions make spot-cleaning easier which is especially helpful with kids, pets, snacks, or all of the above. — Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 3 Sep. 2026 Playing the helpful citizen, Martinez drove his literal truckload of ALPR bits directly to the Sheriff’s department, where he was promptly taken into custody. — Joe Wilkins, Futurism, 3 Sep. 2026 Zach Harper explained each punishment in a helpful guide here. — Chris Branch, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026 Electric stoves don’t produce combustion gases, but that doesn’t mean ventilation isn’t helpful. — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 3 Sep. 2026 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

Phrases Containing helpful

Rhymes for helpful

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Browse Nearby Words

helper T cell
helpful
helpfulness
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Cite this Entry

“Helpful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/helpful. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

helpful

adjective
help·​ful ˈhelp-fəl How to pronounce helpful (audio)
: providing help
a helpful neighbor
helpfully
-fə-lē How to pronounce helpful (audio)
adverb
helpfulness noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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