good works

Idioms and Phrases

Acts of charity, kindness, or good will, as in She spent much of her life in doing good works, especially for the homeless . This expression, also put as good work , originally had the theological meaning of an act of piety. Today it is used in a more general context. [c. a.d. 1000]

Example Sentences

Ethel’s good works included the Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Project in New York City that had been important to her husband.

From Los Angeles Times

Over the course of two years in confirmation classes, he taught me in a deep and meaningful way why we believed what we believed — that we were saved by God’s grace, not good works.

From Los Angeles Times

Any opportunity I have to talk about the good works of Joe Biden and the Democrats — how could I turn that down?

From New York Times

This sounded novel, but it was old wine in a new bottle, the laundering of wrongdoing through conspicuous displays of spiritual piety or good works.

From Los Angeles Times

Hundreds of charities cherish royal appearances, which give their good works visibility and credibility among potential donors.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• charity
• generosity