Entry 1 sense Webster, 1913 Helpful /hĕl'-pfəl/ · Help·ful · IPA /ˈhɛlp.fl̩/ 01 a. Furnishing help; giving aid; assistant; useful; salutary. 1. Furnishing help; giving aid; assistant; useful; salutary. “Heavens make our presence and our practices Pleasant and helpful to him!” — Shak.