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

Example Sentences

Comments lauded Bohm for his generosity, but he explained that the post was a hoax.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

Europe’s recovery might not have been possible without U.S. generosity.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

These small touches give the table a sense of generosity — and they quietly improve nearly everything they touch.

From Salon • Mar. 15, 2026

Mahmood said she was "taking the unprecedented decision to refuse visas for those nationals seeking to exploit our generosity".

From BBC • Mar. 3, 2026

Benji held up his hand, expecting a high five for his generosity.

From "Millionaires for the Month" by Stacey McAnulty

Related Words

• goodness
• hospitality
• kindness
• largesse
• unselfishness