'philanthropy' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'philanthrōpía,' where 'phil-' meant 'loving' and 'anthrōpos' meant 'human being.'

'philanthrōpía' transformed into the Latin word 'philanthropia,' and eventually became the modern English word 'philanthropy' through Old French.

Initially, it meant 'love of humanity,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'charitable giving.'