alms
UK: ɑːmz | US: ɑːmz
n. money, food, or other donations given to the poor or needy as an act of charity
The word "alms" traces back to Old English ælmesse, borrowed from Late Latin eleēmosyna, which itself originated from Greek eleēmosynē (compassion, almsgiving). The Greek root stems from eleos (mercy). Over time, the word simplified in spelling and pronunciation while retaining its core meaning of charitable giving. Notably, it remains monomorphic in modern English, as its historical components are no longer transparent in its current form.
The monk walked through the village, collecting alms for the orphanage.
She gave alms to the beggar outside the temple.
In medieval times, offering alms was considered a sacred duty.
The church distributes alms to the homeless every winter.
He donated his spare coins as alms during the religious festival.