charity

char-i-ty · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An organization set up to provide help and raise money for those in need.

  2. 2.

    The voluntary giving of help, typically money, to those in need.

  3. 3.

    Kindness and tolerance in judging others.

Forms

plural: charities

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    charity begins at home — one should take care of family first
  • •
    give to charity — donate to charitable organizations
  • •
    charity case — someone receiving charitable help (sometimes derogatory)
  • •
    charity event — a fundraising event for a charitable cause
  • •
    out of charity — from kindness rather than obligation

Related words

Antonyms: greed, selfishness, stinginess
See also: charitable, donation, generosity, philanthropy
Synonyms: alms, benevolence, generosity, philanthropy

Etymology

From Old French charité, from Latin caritas ("costliness, esteem, affection"), from carus ("dear, valued"). In Christian theology, caritas became associated with divine love and generosity toward others.