altruism

noun
UK: /ˈæltruɪzəm/
US: /ˈæltruɪzəm/

  1. The quality of unselfish concern for the well-being of others; putting others' needs before your own.

    1. Her altruism made her help the poor. [ ] [ ]
    2. His altruism led him to donate a large sum to charity, demonstrating a deep commitment to helping others. [ ] [ ]

  2. Behavior by an animal that may be to its disadvantage but that benefits others of its kind.

    1. Ants show altruism, helping the colony. [ ] [ ]
    2. The worker bee's altruism ensures the hive's survival, even at the cost of its own life and reproduction. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

benevolence compassion generosity

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "altruism" in English means: The quality of unselfish concern for the well-being of others; putting others' needs before your own., Behavior by an animal that may be to its disadvantage but that benefits others of its kind..

The phonetic transcription of "altruism" is /ˈæltruɪzəm/ in British English and /ˈæltruɪzəm/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "altruism": benevolence, compassion, generosity.

Example usage of "altruism": "Her altruism made her help the poor.". More examples on the page.