selfless

adjective

self·​less ˈsel-fləs How to pronounce selfless (audio)
Synonyms of selflessnext
: 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.
Even Baxter faces declining health during the making of the film, a devastating outcome for a selfless public interest fighter. Tomris Laffly, Variety, 22 Jan. 2026 So he was truly touched by that selfless act of so many in the fire department that would do that for him. David Chiu, PEOPLE, 17 Jan. 2026 Since 2021, the program has delivered 30 custom Defender models and more than $1 million to help selfless organizations in the United States and Canada that provide vital services to local communities in need. Ted Alvarez, Outside, 15 Jan. 2026 Omar praised Walz's decision as selfless. Graham Kates, CBS News, 11 Jan. 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

Cite this Entry

“Selfless.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/selfless. Accessed 27 Jan. 2026.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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