First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
charity
noun char·i·ty \ˈcher-ə-tē, ˈcha-rə-\
: the act of giving money, food, or other kinds of help to people who are poor, sick, etc.; also : something (such as money or food) that is given to people who are poor, sick, etc.
: an organization that helps people who are poor, sick, etc.
: the organizations that help people in need
plural char·i·ties
Full Definition of CHARITY
1
: benevolent goodwill toward or love of humanity
2
a : generosity and helpfulness especially toward the needy or suffering; also : aid given to those in need b : an institution engaged in relief of the poor c : public provision for the relief of the needy
3
a : a gift for public benevolent purposes b : an institution (as a hospital) founded by such a gift
4
: lenient judgment of others
See charity defined for English-language learners
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Origin of CHARITY
Middle English charite, from Anglo-French charité, from Late Latin caritat-, caritas Christian love, from Latin, dearness, from carus dear; akin to Old Irish carae friend, Sanskrit kāma love
Related to CHARITY
- Synonyms
- almsgiving, dole, philanthropy
Synonym Discussion of CHARITY
mercy, charity, clemency, grace, leniency mean a disposition to show kindness or compassion. mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it <threw himself on the mercy of the court>. charity stresses benevolence and goodwill shown in broad understanding and tolerance of others <show a little charity for the less fortunate>. clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing <the judge refused to show clemency>. grace implies a benign attitude and a willingness to grant favors or make concessions <by the grace of God>. leniency implies lack of severity in punishing <criticized the courts for excessive leniency>.
Rhymes with CHARITY
CHARITY Defined for Kids
charity
noun char·i·ty \ˈcher-ə-tē\
plural char·i·ties
Definition of CHARITY for Kids
1
: love for others
2
: kindliness especially in judging others <… I pray you mercy of my fault, and that ye will of your kindness and your charity forgive it … — Mark Twain, A Connecticut Yankee>
3
: the giving of aid to the needy
4
: aid (as food or money) given to those in need
5
: an organization or fund for helping the needy
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