purposeful

adjective

pur·​pose·​ful ˈpər-pəs-fəl How to pronounce purposeful (audio)
Synonyms of purposefulnext
1
: having a purpose: such as
a
: meaningful
purposeful activities
b
: intentional
purposeful ambiguity
2
: full of determination
was soft-spoken but purposeful
purposefully adverb
purposefulness noun

Examples of purposeful in a Sentence

a soft-spoken but purposeful criminal investigator there's a difference between a purposeful lie and an accidental untruth
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.
Lawmakers in California made a purposeful decision that voting should be convenient and not a chore, as a way to to encourage the greatest turnout possible. Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026 The engine delivers a deep, purposeful hum rather than an all-out howl as the gears disappear in quick succession. Matthew MacConnell, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 Minimalism emphasizes purposeful, timeless items, such as sheer linen drapes and neutral bedding for a clean look. Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 June 2026 Once this transaction is complete, our portfolio will be focused, purposeful and strong. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for purposeful

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of purposeful was in 1853

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Cite this Entry

“Purposeful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/purposeful. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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