selfless

[ self-lis ]

adjective

1. having little or no concern for oneself, especially with regard to fame, position, money, etc.; unselfish.

selfless

/ ˈsɛlflɪs /

adjective

1. having little concern for one's own interests

Derived Forms

• ˈselflessly, adverb
• ˈselflessness, noun

Other Words From

• self·less·ly adverb
• self·less·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of selfless¹

First recorded in 1815–25; self + -less

Example Sentences

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

If Harris wins, his selfless act will be a laudable part of the president’s legacy.

From Los Angeles Times

Part of his charm is that it is not selfless — it is inviting charm through intentions.

From Salon

“Body donation is a noble, selfless gift, and an individual themselves makes that decision,” Balta told Salon in a phone interview.

From Salon

Sehri writes that her father was also influenced by the selfless lives of the Jesuit priests and nuns under whom he studied during his school and college years.

From BBC

Related Words

• altruistic
• charitable
• generous
• humanitarian
• loving
• magnanimous
• noble
• self-effacing