Selflessness: meaning, definitions and examples

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selflessness

 

[ ˈsɛlf-lɪsnəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

altruistic behavior

Selflessness is the quality of unselfish concern for the well-being of others.

Synonyms

altruism, benevolence, unselfishness

Examples of usage

  • He is admired for his selflessness in always putting others' needs before his own.
  • Her selflessness and generosity knew no bounds.
  • The act of donating anonymously showed true selflessness.
  • Selflessness is a rare trait in today's society.
  • His selflessness in the face of danger was truly inspiring.

Translations

Translations of the word "selflessness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 altruísmo

🇮🇳 निःस्वार्थता

🇩🇪 Selbstlosigkeit

🇮🇩 ketidakegoisan

🇺🇦 безкорисливість

🇵🇱 bezinteresowność

🇯🇵 無私

🇫🇷 altruisme

🇪🇸 desinterés

🇹🇷 özveri

🇰🇷 이타주의

🇸🇦 الإيثار

🇨🇿 nesobeckost

🇸🇰 nezištnosť

🇨🇳 无私

🇸🇮 nesebičnost

🇮🇸 ósérhlífni

🇰🇿 өзімшілдік

🇬🇪 თვითმკვლელობა

🇦🇿 özgəpərvərlik

🇲🇽 desinterés

Etymology

The term 'selflessness' originated in the late 18th century from the combination of 'self' and 'less', indicating the absence or lack of self. It is often associated with altruism and the act of putting others before oneself. The concept of selflessness has been praised in various philosophical and religious teachings as a noble quality that leads to a more compassionate and harmonious society.

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

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,892, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.