unselfish
Unselfish (adj) means willing to put others' needs ahead of one's own; generous. Example: “Her unselfish devotion to the charity inspired the whole team.”
adj
1
Willing to put others' needs ahead of one's own; generous.
"Her unselfish devotion to the charity inspired the whole team."
"It was an unselfish gesture to give up his seat."
How to use unselfish
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPutting others first rather than thinking only of oneself.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
unselfish act
unselfish devotion
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more unselfish
- Superlative
- most unselfish
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Her _____ devotion to the charity inspired the whole team.
Etymology
From un- ("not") plus selfish.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for unselfish
See all rhymes for unselfish →Frequently asked questions
What does “unselfish” mean?
The word “unselfish” means willing to put others' needs ahead of one's own; generous. In plain terms, putting others first rather than thinking only of oneself.
How do you use “unselfish” in a sentence?
Here is “unselfish” used in a sentence: “Her unselfish devotion to the charity inspired the whole team.”
What is the opposite of “unselfish”?
The opposite of “unselfish” — its antonyms — is selfish.
What part of speech is “unselfish”?
“Unselfish” is an adjective.
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