charity
UK: ˈtʃær.ə.ti | US: ˈtʃer.ə.ti
n. 1. Generous giving to those in need; acts of kindness or help.
n. 2. An organization that provides help to the needy.
n. 3. Leniency or tolerance in judging others.
charity = char<dear/love> + ity<noun suffix>
- char (from Old French chier, Latin carus "dear, beloved") → Reflects affection or care.
- ity (Latin -itas) → Forms abstract nouns indicating a state or quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word charity traces back to Latin caritas (dearness, love), evolving through Old French charité to Middle English. Originally tied to Christian theology as "divine love," it gradually broadened to encompass acts of generosity and institutional aid. The morpheme char- preserves the core idea of care, while -ity formalizes it as a concept.
She donated to charity every month.
The charity provides meals for homeless people.
He showed great charity in forgiving their mistakes.
Running a marathon for charity is commendable.
Her kindness was driven by genuine charity.