Meaning of Word: Generous
Generous refers to the quality of being willing to give more of something, such as time, money, or resources, than is strictly necessary or expected. It is characterized by a readiness to share, help, and act selflessly toward others, often without expecting anything in return.
Etymology
The word “generous” comes from the Latin generosus, meaning “noble” or “of noble birth.” It is derived from genus, meaning “birth,” “descent,” or “race.” In its earliest usage, the word referred to individuals of noble or high rank, suggesting that they were more inclined to acts of kindness and selflessness. Over time, the meaning expanded to refer to anyone who demonstrates kindness, magnanimity, or a willingness to give freely to others.
Detailed Explanation
Generosity is often considered a virtue and a desirable personal trait. A generous person is one who is unselfish and willing to give or share without expecting something in return. This can involve giving away money, offering time to help others, or being emotionally supportive. Generosity reflects an individual’s ability to look beyond personal gain and act for the benefit of others.
Being generous goes beyond material gifts; it includes actions like offering one’s time to assist others or giving emotional support during tough times. Generosity is often linked to positive feelings of empathy, compassion, and concern for others’ well-being. People who are generous are often viewed as compassionate, kind-hearted, and considerate of the needs of others.
Examples
- His generous donation helped fund the new library, allowing it to serve the community for years to come.
- She is always so generous with her time, helping her neighbors with anything they need.
Synonyms with Explanation
- Benevolent: This word emphasizes a desire to do good and to help others. A benevolent person acts out of goodwill and kindness, often for charitable purposes.
- Charitable: Charitable refers to the desire to help others, especially through donations or acts of kindness. It focuses on giving to those in need.
- Unselfish: Unselfishness is the quality of putting others’ needs before one’s own. It is a key component of generosity, especially when it involves self-sacrifice.
- Magnanimous: Magnanimous refers to a person who is generous in forgiving and is not motivated by selfish desires. It often implies a nobility of spirit.
Few Related Terms
- Philanthropy: The act of giving to charitable causes, often involving large-scale donations of money or resources to improve the welfare of others.
- Altruism: Altruism is the principle or practice of selflessly caring for the welfare of others, often leading to acts of generosity.
- Compassion: Compassion involves feeling for others’ misfortunes and a willingness to help, which often manifests in generous acts.
- Kindness: Kindness involves being friendly, considerate, and generous in thought, word, or deed, contributing to a generous attitude.
Antonyms with Explanation
- Selfish: A selfish person is primarily concerned with their own benefit, showing little regard for the needs or welfare of others.
- Greedy: Greed is an excessive desire for material gain or wealth, often at the expense of others, and the opposite of generosity.
- Stingy: Stinginess refers to a reluctance to part with one’s resources, whether money, time, or help, even when it would be beneficial to others.
- Avaricious: Avarice is an extreme form of greed, characterized by an insatiable desire to accumulate wealth and material goods, often at others’ expense.
Other Words Started with Main Word
- Generosity: The quality of being generous; the willingness to give or share without expecting anything in return.
- Generously: In a manner that is generous; giving freely without hesitation or selfish intent.
- Generousness: The state of being generous; the act of giving more than expected or required.
