English Reference
noun

helper

n.
US /ˈhɛɫpɝ/ UK /hˈɛlpɐ/ helper UK spelling helpers

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    a person who helps someone else with a job or a task.

    a person who provides assistance or support to another in performing a task.

    Simple

    The teacher asked for a helper to hand out the books to the class.

    In context

    The lead carpenter hired a temporary helper to assist with the heavy lifting during the framing phase of the construction project.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate British EnglishDialect

    a person who is paid to do cleaning, cooking, and housework in a family home.

    a domestic employee engaged to perform household duties such as cleaning, cooking, and childcare.

    Simple

    Many families in the city employ a helper to look after the children while the parents are at work.

    In context

    The agency specialises in placing experienced domestic helpers with families who require full-time live-in assistance.

    Teacher's tip

    This term is the standard, respectful way to refer to domestic staff in Hong Kong, Singapore, and parts of the Philippines.

    domestic workermaidhousekeeper
  3. 03 C2 Proficiency TechnicalAmerican English

    an extra engine used to help a train climb a steep hill.

    an auxiliary locomotive used to provide additional power to a train, typically for ascending steep gradients.

    Simple

    The train stopped at the base of the mountain to attach a helper for the steep climb.

    In context

    The railway company maintained a fleet of helper engines at the mountain pass to assist heavy freight trains during the winter months.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Slang

    a slang word for a pill that gives you energy, like an amphetamine.

    a slang term for a stimulant pill, specifically amphetamines.

    Simple

    He was caught with a pocket full of helpers at the party.

    In context

    The investigation revealed a local network involved in the distribution of various stimulants, known on the street as helpers.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a very niche slang term; learners are unlikely to encounter it outside of specific crime fiction or historical contexts.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated