unselfishness
|un/self/ish/ness|
B2
/ʌnˈsɛlfɪʃnəs/
(unselfish)
selfless
Etymology
Etymology Information
'unselfishness' originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'selfish', which comes from 'self' and the suffix '-ish' meaning 'having the nature of'.
Historical Evolution
'unselfish' was formed by adding the prefix 'un-' to 'selfish', which was derived from Middle English 'self' and the suffix '-ish'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'not selfish', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality of not putting oneself first, but being willing to give up one's own interests for the benefit of others.
Her unselfishness was evident when she donated her entire bonus to charity.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45