noun, verb

value

/VAL-yoo/ val·ue 2 syllables

The worth or importance of something; to consider important.

Word facts

Part of speech noun, verb
Syllables 2
Letters 5
Starts with V

Definition

Value is the importance, worth, or usefulness of something. As a verb, to value means to consider something important or to appreciate it. Values (plural) also refers to a person's moral principles.

Usage: Value (noun) refers to worth. Values (plural) refers to moral beliefs. Valuable means having great value. Invaluable is the strongest positive: too valuable to measure.

Example sentences

  1. 1

    The value of a good education goes far beyond its cost.

  2. 2

    She values honesty more than almost anything else.

  3. 3

    The painting has both artistic and historical value.

Word family

adjective valuable
adjective invaluable
adjective valueless
verb devalue
Word origin

From Old French valoir ('to be worth'), from Latin valere ('to be strong, to be worth'). Value is the strength — the worth — of something.

Memory tip

Value comes from 'val' meaning strong or worth. Something valuable is worth a lot — it has great strength or importance.

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FAQ

Questions people ask

What does invaluable mean?

Invaluable means extremely valuable — so useful or important that its worth cannot easily be measured.

What are personal values?

Personal values are the moral principles and beliefs that guide how a person lives and makes decisions.