Synonyms of meaningful
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
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.
Top Plays from Bears @ Titans To be clear, the first version will likely be revised and massaged before the Bears arrive at their first meaningful practice of Week 1. Dan Wiederer, New York Times, 30 Aug. 2026 This one was especially meaningful for 2010 Morton graduate Jimmy McCormack, an experienced assistant, including the previous two seasons as the Trojans’ offensive coordinator. Michael Osipoff, Chicago Tribune, 29 Aug. 2026 Consuming solanine in meaningful quantities can cause digestive issues, and in larger amounts, more severe symptoms. Anne Wolf, Martha Stewart, 29 Aug. 2026 That may matter more now than ever, as many meaningful in-person social interactions are dwindling in the face of digital alternatives. David H. Rosmarin, Time, 29 Aug. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Meaningful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/meaningful. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

meaningful

adjective
1
: having a meaning or purpose
meaningful work
2
: full of meaning : significant
a meaningful experience
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!