generosity

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.

The first records of generosity in English come from around the 1400s. Generosity is the noun form of the adjective generous (which is actually recorded later). The suffix -ity is used to make it into a noun. Both generosity and generous derive from the Latin generōsus, meaning “generous” or “of noble birth” (gentle, as in gentleman, is based on a similar root.)

Prior to the 1600s, generosity was mostly used to refer to the status of being a noble or aristocrat. From there, the meaning changed to refer to the kind of noble qualities that aristocrats were supposed to have, such as being fair-minded and above pettiness. This meaning is still used, but generosity now most commonly refers to the tendency to be generous in giving to others. Generosity is most often associated with giving money, but it can involve many things, including time, gifts, or other resources. Many religions regard generosity as a virtue. In that context, generosity is sometimes distinguished from charity in this way: generosity is the willingness to give no matter the situation, while charity is most often associated with giving to people who are poor or otherwise in need.

What are some other forms related to generosity?

• overgenerosity (noun)
• supergenerosity (noun)
• generous (adjective)

What are some synonyms for generosity?

• generousness
• magnanimity

What are some words that share a root or word element with generosity? 

• gentle
• genealogy

What are some words that often get used in discussing generosity?

• gift 
• giving
• donation
• charity
• virtue
• liberality
• hospitality 
• largess

Many people associate generosity with giving money, but there are many ways to be generous.

I love NYE when I reflect on successes/failures and then re-center my heart and mind. 2015 mantra: abundance, gratitude, generosity. Repeat.

— Dana Perino (@DanaPerino) December 31, 2014

Generosity is what keeps the things you own from owning you. In other words, generosity isn't just to help others, it also liberates you.

— Jeff Gramlich (@JeffGramlich) December 31, 2014

It’s impressive to see the amount of #Binghamton restaurants stepping up to provide lunches for kids due to school closures. Thank you for your generosity to those in need during this unpredictable time.

— Toby Rice (@tobydrice) March 15, 2020

Which of the following things can be given to exhibit generosity?

A. money
B. time
C. resources
D. all of the above