selfless
Selfless (adj) means putting other people's needs before one's own, with little regard for personal gain. Example: “The nurse's selfless dedication impressed the whole ward.”
adj
1
Putting other people's needs before one's own, with little regard for personal gain.
"The nurse's selfless dedication impressed the whole ward."
"It was a truly selfless act to give up his seat on the last flight out."
How to use selfless
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThinking of others before yourself; the opposite of selfish.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
selfless act
selfless devotion
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more selfless
- Superlative
- most selfless
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The nurse's _____ dedication impressed the whole ward.
Etymology
Formed from self plus -less.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “selfless” mean?
The word “selfless” means putting other people's needs before one's own, with little regard for personal gain. In plain terms, thinking of others before yourself; the opposite of selfish.
How do you use “selfless” in a sentence?
Here is “selfless” used in a sentence: “The nurse's selfless dedication impressed the whole ward.”
What part of speech is “selfless”?
“Selfless” is an adjective.
Is “selfless” a common word?
“Selfless” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
