English edit

Alternative forms edit

Etymology edit

From Middle English helpful; equivalent to help +‎ -ful.

Pronunciation edit

  • IPA(key): /ˈhɛlp.fʊl/, /ˈhɛlp.fəl/
  • (file)

Adjective edit

helpful (comparative more helpful, superlative most helpful)

  1. Furnishing help; giving aid; useful.
    Antonym: unhelpful
    a helpful clue
    a helpful person
    • 1597, Jacques Guillemeau, translated by A. M., The Frenche chirurgerye[1], Dort: Iſaac Canin, page 48:
      [] inſtructe the yonge Chyrurgiane, becauſe that vvithout making any great delaye, he might be adiuvable & helpefull to the patient vvith theſe remedyes vvhich conſequently follovve.

Derived terms edit

Translations edit