meaningful

adjective

mean·​ing·​ful ˈmē-niŋ-fəl How to pronounce meaningful (audio)
1
a
: having a meaning or purpose
The tests did not produce any meaningful results.
b
: full of meaning : significant
a meaningful life
a meaningful relationship
2
: having an assigned function in a language system
meaningful propositions
meaningfully adverb
meaningfulness noun

Examples of meaningful in a Sentence

The test did not produce any meaningful results. She looked at him in a meaningful way. He wanted to feel that his job was meaningful. The trip turned out to be very meaningful for both of them.
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.
Much like governance, without these systemic changes, even the best AI use cases will struggle to achieve meaningful outcomes. Sidhant Bendre, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025 Instead of perpetuating audit fatigue, with suppliers undergoing redundant assessments that fail to drive meaningful improvements, brands should invest in capacity building efforts. Adele Stafford, Sourcing Journal, 18 Mar. 2025 From its origins as a solemn feast day to its transformation into a global celebration of Irish heritage, St. Patrick's Day is a meaningful occasion for many. David Faris, Newsweek, 17 Mar. 2025 These discussions have provided valuable insights and fostered meaningful dialogue, enabling our office to better understand community concerns and incorporate innovative ideas into our crime-fighting strategies. Brenda Looper, arkansasonline.com, 17 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for meaningful

Word History

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of meaningful was in 1852

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Cite this Entry

“Meaningful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/meaningful. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

meaningful

adjective
mean·​ing·​ful ˈmē-niŋ-fəl How to pronounce meaningful (audio)
1
: having a meaning or purpose
meaningful work
2
: full of meaning : significant
a meaningful experience
meaningfully adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on meaningful

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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