Alms
/ɑːmz/noun
Money or goods given to the poor as a charitable contribution.
Did you know?The practice of giving alms is deeply rooted in ancient religions, often associated with acts of purification and spiritual merit.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*al-
“to nourish or feed”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἄλμη (álmē)
“a form of nourishment or sustenance”
Old English
Old English
ælmesse
“a charitable gift or donation to the needy”
Middle English
Middle English
almesse
“a gift or offering, especially to the poor or destitute”
Modern English
English
alms
“money or goods given to those in need, reflecting acts of charity and compassion.”