charity
char·i·ty
noun \ˈcher-ə-tē, ˈcha-rə-\ plural char·i·ties
Definition of CHARITY
1
: benevolent goodwill toward or love of humanity
2
a : generosity and helpfulness especially toward the needy or suffering; also : aid given to those in need b : an institution engaged in relief of the poor c : public provision for the relief of the needy
3
a : a gift for public benevolent purposes b : an institution (as a hospital) founded by such a gift
4
: lenient judgment of others
Examples of CHARITY
- The holidays are a time for charity and good will.
- She refused to accept charity.
- The dinner was held to raise funds for several charities.
- She runs a local charity that gives books to children.
- All the money will go to charity.
Origin of CHARITY
Middle English charite, from Anglo-French charité, from Late Latin caritat-, caritas Christian love, from Latin, dearness, from carus dear; akin to Old Irish carae friend, Sanskrit kāma love
First Known Use: 13th century
Related to CHARITY
- Synonyms
- almsgiving, dole, philanthropy
See Synonym Discussion at mercy
Rhymes with CHARITY
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