worthwhile
|worth/while|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈwɜrθˌwaɪl/
🇬🇧
/ˈwɜːθˌwaɪl/
valuable effort
Etymology
Etymology Information
'worthwhile' originates from the combination of 'worth' and 'while', where 'worth' meant 'value' and 'while' meant 'time or period'.
Historical Evolution
'worthwhile' evolved from the Old English 'weorþ' (worth) and 'hwīl' (while), eventually becoming the modern English word 'worthwhile'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'valuable time', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'valuable or important'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
sufficiently valuable or important to be worth one's time, effort, or interest.
Volunteering at the shelter was a worthwhile experience.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45