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Selfless: meaning, definitions and examples

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selfless

 

[ ˈsɛlfləs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

in relationships

Having or showing concern for the well-being of others without thought for oneself.

Synonyms

altruistic, generous, kind-hearted, unselfish

Examples of usage

  • She is known for her selfless dedication to helping those in need.
  • His selfless actions have inspired others to do the same.
Context #2 | Adjective

actions

Completely unselfish and concerned only with the well-being of others.

Synonyms

benevolent, charitable, magnanimous, self-sacrificing

Examples of usage

  • The firefighter's selfless bravery saved many lives during the fire.
  • Her selfless donation of time and money made a real difference in the community.

Translations

Translations of the word "selfless" in other languages:

🇵🇹 altruísta

🇮🇳 निःस्वार्थ

🇩🇪 selbstlos

🇮🇩 tanpa pamrih

🇺🇦 безкорисливий

🇵🇱 bezinteresowny

🇯🇵 無私

🇫🇷 altruiste

🇪🇸 desinteresado

🇹🇷 fedakar

🇰🇷 이타적인

🇸🇦 غير أناني

🇨🇿 nesobecký

🇸🇰 nesebecký

🇨🇳 无私

🇸🇮 nesebičen

🇮🇸 ósérhlífinn

🇰🇿 өзгеге жанашыр

🇬🇪 თავდადებული

🇦🇿 özündən keçən

🇲🇽 desinteresado

Etymology

The word 'selfless' originated from the combination of 'self' and the suffix '-less', meaning without. It first appeared in the early 19th century, emphasizing the absence of selfishness or concern for oneself. The concept of selflessness has been valued in various cultures and religions as a virtue that promotes harmony and altruism.

See also: self, selfhood, selfish, selflessly, selflessness, unselfish, unselfishly.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,929, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.