philanthropist

[fi-lan-thruh-pist]

noun

1. a person, typically a wealthy one, who has an altruistic concern for human welfare and shows it by donating money, property, time, or work to aid people in need or to support institutions that serve the public.

   In his private life he was a major philanthropist who spent over $2 billion on causes ranging from education to healthcare.

Other Word Forms

• philanthropistic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of philanthropist¹

First recorded in 1720–30; philanthrop(y) + -ist

Example Sentences

The announcement puts an end to the entrepreneur and philanthropist’s first-ever political campaign, which he funded through a fortune amassed in the real estate industry.

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The Rams’ young group has played very well and is improving every game, said Grier, a minister and philanthropist who also has been a singer and actor.

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The fundraising effort invites local sports teams, philanthropists and partners to fund ticket donations that will go to local organizations that will distribute tickets within their communities.

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He was also among a handful of philanthropists who helped to fund the education of the nation’s Colored citizens.

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Soros Fund Management LLC, the investment firm and family office linked to the billionaire philanthropist, also placed a new bet on Walt Disney Co.

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Related Words

• benefactor 
• contributor 
• donor 
• patron