generosity
Americannoun
-
readiness or liberality in giving.
- Synonyms:
- bountifulness, munificence
- Antonyms:
- stinginess
-
freedom from meanness or smallness of mind or character.
- Synonyms:
- magnanimity, nobleness
- Antonyms:
- pettiness
-
a generous act.
We thanked him for his many generosities.
-
largeness or fullness; amplitude.
noun
-
willingness and liberality in giving away one's money, time, etc; magnanimity
-
freedom from pettiness in character and mind
-
a generous act
-
abundance; plenty
Usage
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.
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of generosity
First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English generosite, from Latin generōsitās, from generōs(us) generous + -itās -ity
Explanation
Generosity is a quality that's a lot like unselfishness. Someone showing generosity is happy to give time, money, food, or kindness to people in need. Generosity is a quality — like honesty and patience — that we all probably wish we had more of. When you show generosity, you might give away things or money or put others before yourself. But generosity is about more than cash and stuff. When you're forgiving and gentle to people, you show generosity of spirit. If you give others help or credit, that shows generosity. The world would certainly be a better place if more people showed generosity to others.
Vocabulary lists containing generosity
Giving Words
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“This isn’t out of generosity or a desire to protect the game’s well-being,” Meyer said.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026
"We also had difficult and complicated moments, which we overcame with great effort, generosity and help."
From Barron's • May 26, 2026
"Thank you to the people of Reggio Emilia for welcoming me into a culture of care with such warmth and generosity."
From BBC • May 14, 2026
It projected American generosity and soft power in ways that built lasting alliances far more efficiently than could ever be achieved militarily.
From Slate • Apr. 23, 2026
“That may be so,” Mr. Poe said, “and I thank Justice Strauss for her generosity, but your parents’ will is very specific.
From "The Bad Beginning" by Lemony Snicket
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
