Bighearted: meaning, definitions and examples
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bighearted
[ bɪɡˈhɜːrtɪd ]
generosity, kindness
Bighearted refers to a person who is very generous and kind-hearted. Such individuals are characterized by their willingness to share their resources, time, or affection with others without expecting anything in return. This trait often leads to acts of charity and compassion towards those in need, showcasing an understanding of others' struggles. People who are bighearted tend to inspire others to be compassionate as well, influencing their surrounding communities positively.
Synonyms
benevolent, charitable, generous, kind-hearted, magnanimous.
Examples of usage
- She has a bighearted nature, always volunteering at local shelters.
- His bighearted gesture of donating to the food bank helped many families.
- The bighearted community came together to support the fundraiser.
- Her bighearted spirit shone through when she welcomed the refugees.
- Despite his wealth, he remained humble and bighearted.
Etymology
The term 'bighearted' is derived from the combination of two words: 'big' and 'hearted.' The word 'big' has been in use since the Middle English period, originating from Old Norse 'beigr,' and denotes greatness in size or extent. In contrast, 'hearted' pertains to an individual’s emotional state, coming from the word 'heart' - a central organ associated with feelings and emotions. The heart has historically symbolized more than just the physical organ; it represents compassion, love, and generosity in cultures worldwide. The combination captures the essence of someone with a generous disposition who embodies kindness and benevolence. The use of 'bighearted' rose in popularity during the 18th century, particularly in sentimental literature, where it described individuals whose emotional magnitude led them to perform acts of kindness and charity.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,519, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.