Worth

Definition

Worth refers to the value, importance, or merit of something, often measured in terms of money, usefulness, or significance.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɜːrθ/
• Respelling: WURTH

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɜːθ/
• Respelling: WURTH

Etymology

The word "worth" originates from Old English "weorþ," meaning "value" or "price," derived from Proto-Germanic "*werþaz" and Proto-Indo-European "*wert-" (to turn, become, or be worthy). The term has been used to denote value and significance since before the 12th century.

Derivatives

• Worthless (adjective)
• Worthy (adjective)
• Worthiness (noun)
• Unworthy (adjective)
• Net worth (noun)

Synonyms

• Value
• Merit
• Importance

Antonyms

• Worthlessness
• Triviality
• None

Usage

The term "worth" is widely used in contexts related to value or significance. As an adjective: "This painting is worth a fortune." As a noun: "The car’s worth has depreciated over the years."

Related Terms

• Value: The importance or monetary worth of something.
• Price: The amount of money expected or given for something.
• Merit: The quality of being good or worthy.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Having a particular value, especially in money: Refers to monetary or practical worth.
  • Example: "This diamond ring is worth thousands of dollars."
• Deserving of a particular action or effort: Indicates significance or merit.
  • Example: "The effort is worth the reward."

Noun

• The value or importance of something: Describes the intrinsic or monetary value.
  • Example: "The worth of the painting cannot be measured."
• The qualities that make something valuable or useful: Indicates utility or merit.
  • Example: "Her ideas proved their worth in the project."