Meaning & use
altruism
Selfless concern for the wellbeing of others, often shown through acts of generosity without expecting anything in return.
See it in a sentence
Her decision to donate a kidney to a stranger was a striking act of altruism.
Some biologists study altruism in animals, such as bees sacrificing themselves to protect the hive.
A note on using this word
Altruism specifically implies acting for others' benefit rather than one's own, distinguishing it from ordinary kindness or charity.
Words with a similar meaning
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Words with an opposite meaning
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