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.
Audiences have steadily been shifting towards valuing meaningful connections with brands that resonate on an emotional level. Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025 Laminar is for the discerning individual with a global outlook across cultures, ideas, places and meaningful connections. Fairchild Studio, WWD, 17 Jan. 2025 Rhinos!’ is a natural fit for our portfolio, blending commercial appeal with meaningful storytelling that parents and children alike will cherish. K.j. Yossman, Variety, 17 Jan. 2025 In fact, the human brain tends to perceive meaningful images in random patterns — a phenomenon known as pareidolia. Ailsa Harvey, Space.com, 17 Jan. 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

Dictionary Entries Near meaningful

Cite this Entry

“Meaningful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/meaningful. Accessed 27 Jan. 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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