Generosity

Etymology

[ad. Latin gener-sit-t-em, f. gener(o)s-us (GENEROUS.- ad. F. généreux, ad. L. gener{omac}s-us, f. gener-, genus stock, race; cf. Sp., It. generoso. The senses appear already developed in Fr. and for the most part in Latin.)

Definitions

• 1. Excellence, goodness of race; nobility of birth or lineage. 15th century Now only archaic

b. Of animals: Excellence of breed; the spirit arising from this. 16th century Obsolete.

• 2. High spirit, courage, nobility of conduct (obs.). Now only in the more restricted sense: Willingness to lay aside resentment or forgive injuries; magnanimity. 17th century

• 3. Readiness or liberality in giving; munificence. 17th century

See also

• Gift