worthwhile

adjective

worth·​while ˈwərth-ˈ(h)wī(-ə)l 

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

The Profile The operating moment works when organizations share a definition of a worthwhile opportunity. — Adam Feiner, Forbes.com, 5 Oct. 2026

On rainy days and sunny days alike, this is a worthwhile place to come nerd out. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Oct. 2026

So think of 6 minutes 23 seconds as the theoretical maximum, not the minimum required for a worthwhile experience. — Jamie Carter, Space.com, 3 Oct. 2026

Rage is not a worthwhile substitute for smart, prescient and responsible stewardship of an absolutely necessary ingredient of modern life. — Rick Nicita, HollywoodReporter, 30 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for worthwhile

• argyle
• awhile
• beguile
• compile
• condyle
• defile
• erstwhile
• exile
• freestyle
• gentile
• hairstyle
• lifestyle

Kids Definition

worthwhile

adjective

worth·​while ˈwərth-ˈhwī(ə)l 

-ˈwī(ə)l

1

: being worth the time or effort spent

worthwhile preparations

2

: worthy sense 1a