generosity

American  

[jen-uh-ros-i-tee] / ˌdʒɛn əˈrɒs ɪ ti /

noun

plural

generosities

1. readiness or liberality in giving.

   Synonyms:

   bountifulness, munificence

   Antonyms:

   stinginess

2. freedom from meanness or smallness of mind or character.

   Synonyms:

   magnanimity, nobleness

   Antonyms:

   pettiness

3. a generous act.

   We thanked him for his many generosities.

4. largeness or fullness; amplitude.

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generosity British  

/ 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

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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

• overgenerosity noun
• supergenerosity noun

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.

Example Sentences

She also mentioned her "extraordinary generosity" and found that it was consistent with her character to give items away and not change her mind about it.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

Let’s give your friend some credit for his generosity.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 13, 2026

Although some people still viewed Algeria "through the lens of the 'dark years'," Leo's visit will allow the world to see "the hospitality and generosity of the Algerian people," said Wekesa.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

Colet exudes such generosity of spirit you can’t help but like her.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

Kit felt a surge of generosity that was new and exhilarating.

From "The Witch of Blackbird Pond" by Elizabeth George Speare

Related Words

• goodness
• hospitality
• kindness
• largesse
• unselfishness