altruism

noun

Definition of altruismnext
as in generosity
feelings and behavior that show a desire to help other people and a lack of selfishness charitable acts motivated purely by altruism In one final act of altruism, she donated almost all of her money to the hospital.

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of altruism Biblical scholar Bart Ehrman contends that our modern sense of altruism can be traced back to the radical shift in ethical thinking sparked by Jesus' teachings. — Big Think, 26 Mar. 2026 Trefethen led a similar portfolio at the philanthropic organization, Coefficient Giving, which is a major funder of the effective altruism community that has sometimes clashed with OpenAI’s vision for artificial intelligence. — Thalia Beaty, Fortune, 25 Mar. 2026 Providing service to others seems like a good cure for what ails us today — a true lack of altruism and looking out for each other regardless of race, gender or religion, etc. — Chicago Tribune, 12 Mar. 2026 Advertisement The company has deep roots in effective altruism (EA), a social and philanthropic movement dedicated to using reason to do the most good, including by averting catastrophe. — Harry Booth, Time, 11 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for altruism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for altruism
  1. generosity
  2. charity
  3. philanthropy
Noun
  • Charities should seize on that and message around the benefit that leaning into generosity has for people’s wallets and their communities—one that opens the door to a teaching moment.
    — Dale Bannon, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Their generosity, humanity and belief in the importance of fashion as art, culture and history – as well as their understanding of human fragility and the possibility of growth – will remain with me always.
    — Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of generosity
Noun
  • The fallout cost Ferguson charity affiliations, contributed to the closure of Sarah's Trust and damaged several of her business ventures.
    — Lauryn Overhultz , Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Funds from the endowment were distributed to Arkansas charities and nonprofit organizations.
    — Dylan Sherman, Arkansas Online, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of charity
Noun
  • The showcase is supported by Allison Sarofim, the chair of Friends of the CFDA known for her work in the arts, film, fashion, beauty, and philanthropy.
    — Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 2026
  • One of the most beloved celebrities of all time, her passing inspired a tidal wave of tributes from around the world, with Parton remembered not just for her music but for her acting career, decades of philanthropy and advocacy.
    — Ethan Millman, HollywoodReporter, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of philanthropy

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altruism
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Cite this Entry

“Altruism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/altruism. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on altruism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about altruism

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