generosity

[ jen-uh-ros-i-tee ]

noun

, plural gen·er·os·i·ties.

1. readiness or liberality in giving.

   Synonyms: bountifulness, munificence

   Antonyms: stinginess

2. freedom from meanness or smallness of mind or character.

   Synonyms: nobleness, magnanimity

   Antonyms: pettiness

3. a generous act:

   We thanked him for his many generosities.

4. largeness or fullness; amplitude.

generosity

/ ˌdʒɛnəˈrɒsɪtɪ /

noun

1. willingness and liberality in giving away one's money, time, etc; magnanimity
2. freedom from pettiness in character and mind
3. a generous act
4. abundance; plenty

Other Words From

• over·gener·osi·ty noun
• super·gener·osi·ty noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of generosity¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English generosite, from Latin generōsitās, from generōs(us) generous + -itās -ity

Example Sentences

Doing so is a pragmatic as well as a moral necessity lest the voters’ patience and generosity run out.

From Los Angeles Times

Dr Cullinan said he was "humbled by the generosity of the trustees of the Sir Percival David Foundation".

From BBC

By the 1830s, elected officials such as James Henry Hammond could claim in the halls of Congress that American slavery retained the “advantages” of “the aristocracy of the old world,” adding that “slavery does indeed create an aristocracy — an aristocracy of talents, of virtue, of generosity and courage. In a slave country, every freeman is an aristocrat.”

From Salon

Schapker and Watson say that sense of leadership and generosity was apparent during the making of “Dune: Prophecy.”

From Los Angeles Times

She added: "I was honored to call Quincy a friend. I will always remember his generosity of spirit, his selfless support, and his deep kindness. Our world has lost a giant. But in his melodies, and in the lives he touched, Quincy’s legacy will live on forever."

From BBC

Related Words

• goodness
• hospitality
• kindness
• largesse
• unselfishness