generosity

noun

gen·​er·​os·​i·​ty ˌje-nə-ˈrä-sə-tē How to pronounce generosity (audio)
-ˈrä-stē
plural generosities
Synonyms of generosity
1
a
: the quality or fact of being generous
a person of great generosity
b
: a generous act
2
: abundance
great generosity of spirit

Examples of generosity in a Sentence

her generosity toward the poor a sidewalk beggar who benefited from the generosity of kindhearted passersby
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
His generosity reflected an approach to community that extended beyond his business. Kansas City Star, 28 Aug. 2026 And a garden growing generosity as much as unusual vegetables in a quiet corner of the fairgrounds. Courtney Crowder, Des Moines Register, 28 Aug. 2026 Dolly Parton’s generosity is coming into sharper focus in the days following her death, with new details about her final health battle underscoring the same selflessness that defined so much of her public life. Spin Staff, SPIN, 27 Aug. 2026 But Parton leaves a legacy that soars above all all the songs and movies, all the delightful banter with talk-show hosts and all the beneficiaries of her boundless generosity. Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for generosity

Word History

First Known Use

1566, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of generosity was in 1566

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Generosity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generosity. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

generosity

noun
plural generosities
1
: freedom in spirit or act
especially : readiness in giving
2
: a generous act
3
: an ample quantity
a generosity of spirit
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