generosity

[jen-uh-ros-i-tee]

noun

plural

generosities 

1. readiness or liberality in giving.

   Synonyms: bountifulness, munificence
   Antonyms: stinginess

2. freedom from meanness or smallness of mind or character.

   Synonyms: magnanimity, nobleness
   Antonyms: pettiness

3. a generous act.

   We thanked him for his many generosities.

4. largeness or fullness; amplitude.

generosity

/ ˌdʒɛnəˈrɒsɪtɪ /

noun

1. willingness and liberality in giving away one's money, time, etc; magnanimity

2. freedom from pettiness in character and mind

3. a generous act

4. abundance; plenty

Other Word Forms

• overgenerosity noun
• supergenerosity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of generosity¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English generosite, from Latin generōsitās, from generōs(us) generous + -itās -ity

Example Sentences

That same energy — careful attention to detail, generosity, ritualistic devotion — maps almost perfectly onto sourdough culture: people exchanging starters, mentoring newbies on Reddit, obsessing over hydration ratios, even running “starter hotels” for friends’ yeast cultures.

From Salon

Howard’s generosity with his actors keeps this ensemble a charged group of clashing molecules.

From Los Angeles Times

“They have the same warmth and generosity and love of the theater,” Stiller says, smiling.

From Los Angeles Times

With no regular government or Church of England funding "beyond clergy stipends", they said they "rely on the generosity of our visitors".

From BBC

In England, clubs have relied on the generosity of wealthy owners like Bruce Craig at Bath and Bristol Bears' Steve Lansdown to underwrite the costs of maintaining a big playing squad.

From BBC

Related Words

• goodness 
• hospitality 
• kindness 
• largesse 
• unselfishness www.thesaurus.com

When To Use

What does generosity mean?

Generosity is the spirit and action of freely and frequently giving to others.Generosity can also refer to an overall spirit of kindness, but this is less common.Example: If there’s one thing she will be remembered for, it’s her generosity—she was extremely generous with her money, her time, and her effort.