Charity
/ˈtʃærɪti/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe voluntary giving of help to those in need, typically in the form of money or gifts.
/ˈtʃærɪti/
Generosity and aid to those in need.
They donated generously to charity.
💡 Simply: Charity is like giving a helping hand to someone who needs it. Like giving your extra toys to a friend who doesn't have any, but on a bigger scale.
👶 For kids: Helping people who need help.
More Examples
The organization relies heavily on public charity.
How It's Used
"The charity provides food and shelter to the homeless."
"We are organizing a fundraising event for cancer charity."
An organization set up to provide help and raise money for those in need.
/ˈtʃærɪti/
A charitable organization.
He works for a children's charity.
💡 Simply: A charity is like a team that helps people who are struggling. They might give food, money, or help people find homes.
👶 For kids: A group that helps people.
More Examples
Many charities are struggling to get funding.
How It's Used
"The local animal charity is always looking for volunteers."
Idioms & expressions
out of charity
From a feeling of pity or compassion.
"He did it out of charity, not because he liked him."
From Old French 'charité', from Latin 'caritas', meaning 'dearness, love'. The modern meaning developed from the concept of Christian love and benevolence.
Historically, 'charity' was strongly linked to religious piety and almsgiving. The concept of organized charities developed later.
Memory tip
Think 'care' and 'pity' combined – Charity is caring enough to help those in need.