Selfless: meaning, definitions and examples
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selfless
[ ˈsɛlfləs ]
in relationships
Having or showing concern for the well-being of others without thought for oneself.
Synonyms
altruistic, generous, kind-hearted, unselfish.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
selfless |
When someone prioritizes others' needs and well-being over their own without seeking any reward.
|
altruistic |
When someone's actions are motivated by a concern for the welfare of others, often emphasizing a moral duty.
|
unselfish |
When someone acts without self-interest, often in everyday situations where a small sacrifice is made to help others.
|
generous |
When someone is willing to give more of something, especially money or time, than is necessary or expected.
|
kind-hearted |
When someone shows a benevolent, compassionate, and gentle nature.
|
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.
actions
Completely unselfish and concerned only with the well-being of others.
Synonyms
benevolent, charitable, magnanimous, self-sacrificing.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
selfless |
Used to describe someone who puts the needs and well-being of others before their own without expecting anything in return.
|
self-sacrificing |
Describes someone who is willing to give up their own interests, desires, or needs for the sake of others, often seen as an act of great generosity.
|
benevolent |
Describes someone who has a kind and generous nature, often doing good deeds out of goodwill.
|
charitable |
Refers to someone who gives help, usually in the form of money or resources, to those in need or supports charitable organizations.
|
magnanimous |
Describes someone who is generous and forgiving, especially towards a rival or someone less powerful.
|
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.
- ...
- 20926 conjectural
- 20927 charisma
- 20928 daresay
- 20929 selfless
- 20930 lair
- 20931 lithographic
- 20932 tragically
- ...