Philanthropy
/fɪˈlæn.θrə.pi/noun
The desire to promote the welfare of others, typically through the donation of money to good causes.
Did you know?In ancient Greece, philanthropy was often linked to the worship of gods, where offerings to deities were seen as acts of kindness to humanity that could secure divine favor.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
φιλανθρωπία
“Love for mankind or a kindness towards humanity, often in a religious or moral context.”
Late Latin
Latin
philanthropia
“A term borrowed from Greek, used to describe a charitable act or love for humankind.”
Medieval Latin
Latin
philanthropia
“Used in religious and scholarly texts to refer to acts of kindness and charity.”
16th Century
English
philanthropy
“Adoption into English, used to describe organized efforts to promote human welfare.”
Modern English
English
philanthropy
“Now widely understood as charitable acts, often formalized through foundations and organizations.”
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