selflessness

[ self-lis-nis ]

noun

1. lack of preoccupation with one’s own interests, advancement, desires, etc., and attentiveness to those of others; unselfishness:

   Playing volleyball taught me the value of teamwork, discipline, and selflessness, which can all be applied in the classroom in helping others.

Word History and Origins

Origin of selflessness¹

selfless ( def ) + -ness ( def )

Example Sentences

“Recognizing the hot hand, which is a real thing, but recognizing the hot hand and then executing just shows a level of selflessness,” Redick said.

From Los Angeles Times

The Brazilian also benefited from the selflessness of teammate Joseph Paintsil.

From Los Angeles Times

In so doing, “Arcane” strips away any illusions of selflessness even as it acknowledges her valid pain, in the process also holding a mirror up to fascist America circa 2024.

From Salon

“There's an overwhelming sense of sadness for the lives lost but also a profound admiration for their bravery and their selflessness,” he said.

From BBC

For Trump, the ultimate honor is not the selflessness of sacrifice for one’s country and the greater good, but service and loyalty to him and his fascist personality cult.

From Salon

Related Words

• benevolence
• humanitarianism
• kindness