purposeful

adjective

pur·​pose·​ful ˈpər-pəs-fəl How to pronounce purposeful (audio)
1
: having a purpose: such as
a
: meaningful
purposeful activities
b
: intentional
purposeful ambiguity
2
: full of determination
was soft-spoken but purposeful
purposefully adverb
purposefulness noun

Examples of purposeful in a Sentence

a soft-spoken but purposeful criminal investigator there's a difference between a purposeful lie and an accidental untruth
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.
This transforms awkward small talk into purposeful exploration. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025 The philosophy emphasizes purposeful training, good health and positivity. Fluto Shinzawa, New York Times, 31 May 2025 The collection showcased the jewelry house’s approach to balance: no overwhelming metalwork, space for the impressive stones to breathe in the designs, and a purposeful use of color and form to accentuate and complement each element of the pieces. Daisy Shaw-Ellis, Vogue, 28 May 2025 By focusing on purposeful communication, nurturing relationships, and offering opportunities for engagement, your virtual customer service center can turn low retention into long-term loyalty. Johnny C. Taylor Jr, USA Today, 28 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for purposeful

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of purposeful was in 1853

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Cite this Entry

“Purposeful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/purposeful. Accessed 7 Jun. 2025.

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