charitable

adjective

char·​i·​ta·​ble ˈcher-ə-tə-bəl 

ˈcha-rə-

1

: full of love for and goodwill toward others : benevolent

2

a

: liberal in benefactions to the needy : generous

b

: of or relating to charity

charitable institutions

3

: merciful or kind in judging others : lenient

charitableness noun

charitably

ˈcher-ə-tə-blē 

ˈcha-rə-

adverb

Synonyms of charitable

• philanthropic
• humanitarian
• benevolent

Examples of charitable in a Sentence

She makes a charitable donation every year.

He performs charitable work to help the poor.

They give money to charitable causes.

She has tried to be charitable about her sister's problems.

Half of the class has a chance at passing the test, and that is a charitable estimate.

Recent Examples on the Web

While the event offered charitable benefits, Rocket Companies' true commitment is a $500 million, 10-year philanthropic initiative. — Tonya M. Evans, Forbes.com, 26 July 2026

The church leaders called on lawmakers to retain existing tax exemptions for charitable organizations such as maternity homes, domestic violence shelters and food banks if Amendment 5 passes. — Jack Harvel, Kansas City Star, 25 July 2026

Turner pointed to Markle's previous charitable work with the Hubb Community Kitchen, which was established in the wake of London's devastating Grenfell Tower fire. — Ashley Hume , Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 25 July 2026

Foodbanks and Hillsborough Burnham has fundraised for the club’s charitable arm, Everton in the Community, and regularly championed fan causes. — Patrick Boyland, New York Times, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing charitable

• charitable gift

Rhymes for charitable

• uncharitable

Kids Definition

charitable

adjective

char·​i·​ta·​ble ˈchar-ət-ə-bəl 

1

: freely giving money or help to poor and needy persons : generous

2

: given for the needy : of service to the needy

charitable funds

a charitable institution

3

: kindly in judging other people

charitableness noun

charitably

-blē 

adverb

Legal Definition

charitable

adjective

char·​i·​ta·​ble

: of or relating to charity

charitable contributions