noun
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altruism
AL-troo-ihz-uhm
Altruism (noun) means Selfless concern for the wellbeing of others, often shown through helpful action. Example: “Her volunteer work was a genuine act of altruism.”
noun
1
Selfless concern for the wellbeing of others, often shown through helpful action.
"Her volunteer work was a genuine act of altruism."
"Some scientists study altruism in animals that help others at a cost to themselves."
How to use altruism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCaring about and helping others without expecting anything back.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
act of altruism
pure altruism
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Word forms
- Plural
- altruisms
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Her volunteer work was a genuine act of _____.
Etymology
Coined in French in 1830 by Auguste Comte from autrui, "others," plus the suffix "-isme"; introduced into English in 1853.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for altruism
See all rhymes for altruism →Frequently asked questions
What does “altruism” mean?
The word “altruism” means selfless concern for the wellbeing of others, often shown through helpful action. In plain terms, caring about and helping others without expecting anything back.
How do you pronounce “altruism”?
“Altruism” is pronounced AL-troo-ihz-uhm (/ˈæl.tɹu.ɪz.əm/ in IPA).
How do you use “altruism” in a sentence?
Here is “altruism” used in a sentence: “Her volunteer work was a genuine act of altruism.”
What part of speech is “altruism”?
“Altruism” is a noun.
Where does the word “altruism” come from?
The word “altruism” dates back to around 1830 and comes from French. Coined in French in 1830 by Auguste Comte from autrui, "others," plus the suffix "-isme"; introduced into English in 1853.
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