Samaritan: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to a person who helps others generously, often used in modern contexts to describe someone offering help in emergencies or difficult situations.

• The samaritan stayed with the injured man until the ambulance arrived

Specifically denotes someone who helps a stranger in need, often in a biblical or moral context, emphasizing their compassionate and selfless act.

• A good Samaritan stopped to help the elderly woman who had fallen on the sidewalk

Refers to a person who provides financial support or other assistance to a person, organization, or cause, commonly used in contexts involving philanthropy or sponsorship.

• The university was able to build a new library thanks to a generous benefactor

Describes a person who places the welfare of others before their own, often used in contexts discussing personal virtues or selfless behavior.

• She is an altruist who spends her weekends volunteering at the homeless shelter