1
[ adjective ] providing assistance or serving a useful function

Used in print

([Anonymous,] "The Attack on Employee Services"...)

Some companies find a little imagination helpful .

(The Department of State: A Fresh Look at the...)

Which American ambassadors could provide helpful advice ?

(Doris Miles Disney, Mrs. Meeker's Money....)

Garth was prepared to be helpful in what he referred to with fastidious distaste as this unfortunate Johnston affair , which would not , he said more than once , have ever come_about if Mrs._Meeker had only seen fit to consult Mr._Hohlbein or him about it .

2
[ adjective ] of service or assistance

Examples

"a child who is helpful around the house can save the mother many steps"

Used in print

(The Times-Picayune, [New Orleans]...)

The electric gadget is most helpful when there are many crowned teeth and in individuals who are elderly , bedfast with a chronic disease , or are handicapped by disorders such_as cerebral_palsy or muscular_dystrophy .

("Editorials"...)

Tanks lined_up at the border will be no_more helpful .

(Bonnie Prudden, "The Dancer and the Gymnast"...)

And dancing_school , so helpful in artistic and psychological development , also contributes to this essential early training - and can contribute even more .

Related terms

useful

3
[ adjective ] showing a willingness to cooperate

Examples

"a helpful cooperative patient" "parents hope to raise children who are considerate and helpful to others"

Related terms

cooperative

*