helping

noun

help·​ing ˈhel-piŋ How to pronounce helping (audio)
Synonyms of helpingnext
1
: a portion of food : serving
2
: dose sense 3
… large helpings of reportage and interviews.Stefan Kanfer

Examples of helping in a Sentence

He had two helpings of carrots. Can I give you a second helping?
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 compact motor can supply its electric helping hand at up to 160 mph, versus 150 mph before. Lawrence Ulrich, Robb Report, 26 Mar. 2026 His answer came with a side helping of sarcasm. John C. Moritz, Austin American Statesman, 19 Mar. 2026 And while some might not be in your weekly rotation—like the Candied Ham Loaf from our first issue in 1966—a generous helping of them has stood the test of time. Josh Miller, Southern Living, 14 Mar. 2026 With each having their own motives to capture the killer, double-crosses and cat-and-mouse games ensue, along with a heaping helping of police versus criminals and gang versus gang action. Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for helping

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of helping was in 1866

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Cite this Entry

“Helping.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/helping. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

helping

noun
help·​ing ˈhel-piŋ How to pronounce helping (audio)
: a portion of food : serving

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