WordGarden.ioselfless
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈɛlfləs/
US
- /ˈsɛlfləs/
Meanings
Adjective
caring more about other people than about yourself
Beyond the definition
To be selfless means putting the needs of other people before your own, without expecting anything back. It is about real kindness and a readiness to help, even when it costs time, comfort, or effort. Think of a firefighter rushing into a burning building; that is a truly selfless act.
Being selfless does not mean never thinking about yourself; everyone has needs. But a selfless person usually puts other people's well-being first. It is often seen as a noble quality, and stories often celebrate selfless heroes who devote their lives to helping people in need. You might describe a mother caring for her sick child day and night as selfless, or a volunteer giving many hours to a homeless shelter.
The word "selfless" describes someone who consistently puts the needs and well-being of others before their own. It is more than just being kind; it is about helping others without expecting personal gain or reward. Imagine a doctor working tirelessly during a pandemic and risking their own health to care for patients; that embodies selflessness.
Selfless actions often involve sacrifice. A selfless person might give up time, resources, or comfort to help someone else. It is not about martyrdom, though; it is about finding meaning in making life better for other people.
The opposite of selfless is selfish, which means being focused only on your own needs and desires. While everyone has moments of self-interest, a truly selfless person shows steady concern for the people around them. You might say someone is "selflessly devoted" to a cause or that they made a "selfless contribution" to the community.
Historically, selflessness has been valued in many cultures and religions, often treated as a virtue linked to compassion, empathy, and moral strength. Stories of selfless heroes appear throughout literature and folklore, inspiring people with examples of courage and dedication. So when you meet someone who keeps putting others first, you can see the quiet power of being selfless, a quality that helps make the world a better place.
Examples
- 1
Emergency help
The volunteers were praised for their selfless work after the storm.
- 2
Family devotion
Her selfless devotion to her children shaped every part of her life.
- 3
Praising action
It was selfless of Dan to step aside and let his younger teammate lead.
- Patternselfless of someone to + verb
used to praise a specific action
- 4
Family care
Everyone noticed how selfless she became when her father got sick.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Workplace kindness
Small, selfless gestures can make a workplace feel more supportive.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- self-sacrificing
- public-spirited
Contrast
- selfish
- self-centered
Used with (collocations)
- selfless act
- selfless service
- selfless devotion
- selfless love
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- selflessadjective