selfless

adjective

self·​less ˈsel-fləs How to pronounce selfless (audio)
Synonyms of selfless
: having no concern for self : unselfish
selflessly adverb
selflessness noun

Examples of selfless in a Sentence

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.
Stagg coach Mike Kealy named Woznik a captain during summer training, acknowledging his natural leadership and selfless play. — Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 23 Sep. 2026 So unlike selfish actions, selfless acts of kindness have a real and lasting basis. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 14 Sep. 2026 Since his Vuelta win, Kuss has mostly reverted to selfless domestique duties, helping Vingegaard to win the 2025 Vuelta and 2026 Giro. — Chris Marshall-Bell, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026 Is there a more potent aphrodisiac than a man’s selfless admiration of a woman’s talents? — Inkoo Kang, New Yorker, 10 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for selfless

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of selfless was in 1651

Browse Nearby Words

self-legislating
selfless
self-life
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Selfless.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/selfless. Accessed 7 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

selfless

adjective
self·​less ˈsel-fləs How to pronounce selfless (audio)
: having no concern for self : unselfish
selflessly adverb
selflessness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on selfless

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for selfless

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