Altruistic

ˌæl.truˈɪs.tɪk

adjectivemediumCommonGeneral

Definitions

1

Showing a disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others; unselfish.

ˌæl.truˈɪs.tɪk

adjectivepositivemedium
General

Showing a selfless concern for the well-being of others; unselfish.

The charity relies on altruistic individuals who donate their time and money.

💡 Simply: Being altruistic is like being a real-life superhero! It means you're genuinely happy to help people, even if you don't get anything in return. Imagine you see someone struggling with groceries—an altruistic person would offer to lend a hand!

👶 For kids: Being altruistic means you care about other people and want to help them, even if you don't get a treat for it.

More Examples

2

It was an altruistic act, done without any expectation of reward.

3

Her altruistic nature made her a beloved figure in the community.

How It's Used

Social Sciences

"The research explored the altruistic behavior of volunteers in disaster relief."

Psychology

"The study examined the psychological motivations behind altruistic acts."

From French *altruiste*, coined by Auguste Comte, based on the Italian word *altrui* meaning 'of or to others'.

The term gained prominence in the 19th century, reflecting the increasing emphasis on social responsibility and empathy.

Memory tip

Think of ALTRUISTIC as being 'ALL TRUE IS TIC' for helping others.

altrusiticaltruisitcaltruisticc

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written