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

One day, a player is going to get caught out and look pretty silly, but the embarrassment/flex risk/reward assessment is clearly judged worthwhile enough to keep doing it. —Nick Miller, The Athletic, 3 Feb. 2025

The two-mile drive is narrow and winding, but absolutely worthwhile—not only for the natural stone Keyhole Arch that rises alongside the beach (ideally viewed when timed with the sun’s setting rays passing through its opening) but for the beach’s most unique feature: purple sand. —Katie Kiefner, Vogue, 1 Feb. 2025

Building confidence and learning to love yourself are lengthy (if very worthwhile) pursuits. —Erica Sloan, SELF, 31 Jan. 2025

However, paying that withdrawal penalty may be worthwhile for many savers who adopt the right strategy. —Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 28 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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