Meaning & use

magnanimity

noun·Advanced

Last updated

The quality of being generous or forgiving, especially toward a rival or someone less powerful.

See it in a sentence

He accepted defeat with surprising magnanimity, congratulating his opponent warmly.

Her magnanimity toward former critics won her many admirers.

A note on using this word

Magnanimity is often shown at moments of victory or advantage, highlighting generosity toward someone in a weaker position.

Words with a similar meaning

generositygraciousness

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

pettinessmeanness

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