worthwhile

adjective

worth·​while ˈwərth-ˈ(h)wī(-ə)l How to pronounce worthwhile (audio)
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 oxtail udon noodle is worthwhile, too, served with an egg yolk on top that your server will mix tableside. Constance Ogle, Miami Herald, 1 Aug. 2025 The conservancy location provides crucial advantages that make the journey worthwhile: only five safari camps operate within the 33,000-hectare area, ensuring intimate wildlife encounters without the crowding common in public reserves. Jenn Rice, Travel + Leisure, 31 July 2025 What keeps companies going from decades to centuries, and through one disaster to the other, is a sense of a mission that is worthwhile. Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 30 July 2025 However, the duration of your absence and personal preferences will determine whether this is worthwhile. Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Worthwhile.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/worthwhile. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on worthwhile

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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