worthwhile

adjective

worth·​while ˈwərth-ˈ(h)wī(-ə)l How to pronounce worthwhile (audio)
Synonyms of worthwhilenext
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
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.
The vessels were effectively self-insured against attacks, according to the official's account, with higher crude prices making the voyages financially worthwhile despite the risks. — Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 16 Oct. 2026 If Plex could use its user data to drive worthwhile recommendations, monetizing its content discovery could prove lucrative. — Scharon Harding, ArsTechnica, 15 Oct. 2026 Restaurants are emphasizing memorable experiences, while diners are looking for outings that feel worthwhile. — Ashley Lynch, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Oct. 2026 Even when the economic impact is not calculated, administrators say river restoration projects can be a worthwhile investment. — CBS News, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for worthwhile

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of worthwhile was in 1662

Rhymes for worthwhile

See All Rhymes for worthwhile

Browse Nearby Words

worth someone's while
worthwhile
worthy
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Cite this Entry

“Worthwhile.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/worthwhile. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

worthwhile

adjective
worth·​while ˈwərth-ˈhwī(ə)l How to pronounce worthwhile (audio)
-ˈwī(ə)l
1
: being worth the time or effort spent
worthwhile preparations
2
: worthy sense 1a

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