selflessness

American  

[self-lis-nis] / ˈsɛlf lɪs nɪs /

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.

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Etymology

Origin of selflessness

selfless ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

selflessness

The author argues that contemporary American business and government leaders are fundamentally characterized by an absence of character, which the author defines as steadfastness, selflessness, self-sacrifice, honesty, and integrity in dealings with others.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 19, 2026

What modern historians know is that selflessness didn’t come effortlessly to Washington.

From Slate ● Feb. 16, 2026

"Our lifeguards show selflessness every day in keeping our world-famous beaches safe for surfers and swimmers, but what we saw on Sunday night should be commended and celebrated," he said.

From Barron's ● Dec. 20, 2025

“This act of bravery and selflessness reflects exactly who they were: people who instinctively chose to help, even at great personal risk,” according to a statement released by friends of the family.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 19, 2025

I have never seen him think of himself, never heard him insist on anything but selflessness.

From "Divergent" by Veronica Roth

Related Words

• benevolence
• humanitarianism
• kindness