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

Complementing Walter’s generosity has been the renowned acumen of Friedman, baseball’s best executive who had a stellar season that far exceeded even the signings of Ohtani and Yamamoto.

From Los Angeles Times

“But she was so much more than that character in real life, and I think her elegance, compassion and generosity are finally being shown as part of the same person everyone knew her to be.”

From Los Angeles Times

It was just such an extreme act of generosity on your part toward these two essentially unknown guys, Spike and Charlie, making their first movie.

From Los Angeles Times

"He's so proud of himself and we just can't believe people's generosity," she added.

From BBC

Related Words

• goodness
• hospitality
• kindness
• largesse
• unselfishness

More About Generosity

What does generosity mean?

Generosity is the spirit and action of freely and frequently giving to others.

Generosity can also refer to an overall spirit of kindness, but this is less common.

Example: If there’s one thing she will be remembered for, it’s her generosity—she was extremely generous with her money, her time, and her effort.

Where does generosity come from?

The first records of generosity in English come from around the 1400s. Generosity is the noun form of the adjective generous (which is actually recorded later). The suffix -ity is used to make it into a noun. Both generosity and generous derive from the Latin generōsus, meaning “generous” or “of noble birth” (gentle, as in gentleman, is based on a similar root.)

Prior to the 1600s, generosity was mostly used to refer to the status of being a noble or aristocrat. From there, the meaning changed to refer to the kind of noble qualities that aristocrats were supposed to have, such as being fair-minded and above pettiness. This meaning is still used, but generosity now most commonly refers to the tendency to be generous in giving to others. Generosity is most often associated with giving money, but it can involve many things, including time, gifts, or other resources. Many religions regard generosity as a virtue. In that context, generosity is sometimes distinguished from charity in this way: generosity is the willingness to give no matter the situation, while charity is most often associated with giving to people who are poor or otherwise in need.

Did you know ... ?

What are some other forms related to generosity?

• overgenerosity (noun)
• supergenerosity (noun)
• generous (adjective)

What are some synonyms for generosity?

• generousness
• magnanimity

What are some words that share a root or word element with generosity? 

• gentle
• genealogy

What are some words that often get used in discussing generosity?

• gift 
• giving
• donation
• charity
• virtue
• liberality
• hospitality 
• largess

How is generosity used in real life?

Many people associate generosity with giving money, but there are many ways to be generous.

I love NYE when I reflect on successes/failures and then re-center my heart and mind. 2015 mantra: abundance, gratitude, generosity. Repeat.

— Dana Perino (@DanaPerino) December 31, 2014

Generosity is what keeps the things you own from owning you. In other words, generosity isn't just to help others, it also liberates you.

— Jeff Gramlich (@JeffGramlich) December 31, 2014

It’s impressive to see the amount of #Binghamton restaurants stepping up to provide lunches for kids due to school closures. Thank you for your generosity to those in need during this unpredictable time.

— Toby Rice (@tobydrice) March 15, 2020

 

 

Try using generosity!

Which of the following things can be given to exhibit generosity?

A. money
B. time
C. resources
D. all of the above