unselfish

[uhn-sel-fish]

adjective

1. not selfish; disinterested; generous; altruistic.

unselfish

/ ʌnˈsɛlfɪʃ /

adjective

1. not selfish or greedy; generous

Other Word Forms

• unselfishly adverb
• unselfishness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unselfish¹

First recorded in 1690–1700; un- ¹ + selfish

Example Sentences

"She was unselfish, always ready to encourage with love and support those around her to achieve more than they themselves thought possible," he said.

From BBC

In a real crisis, the public and the opposition party need to believe that presidential authority is being exercised for unselfish reasons.

From Los Angeles Times

There are people out there who would say I was unselfish and a team player, and I wouldn't argue with that.

From BBC

He was gallus and unselfish and frequently unplayable.

From BBC

Announcing his death, Carter's son Chip said his father was "a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love".

From BBC

Related Words

• generous 
• noble 
• self-effacing 
• selfless