The word ‘Altruistic’ (Adjective) describes a behavior or mindset where a person genuinely cares about others and willingly chooses to help them, even when doing so offers no personal gain.. in this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use ‘Altruistic’ correctly in sentences.
Altruistic Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the words Altruistic including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.
Meanings of Altruistic
Altruistic means showing a genuine and selfless concern for the well-being of others. In other words, a person who acts altruistically chooses to help or support others not because they want praise or reward, but simply because they care.
Moreover, they often go out of their way to offer kindness, even when it doesn’t benefit them personally. Instead of thinking only about themselves, they naturally consider what others need first.
Definition:
Altruistic refers to a behavior or mindset where a person genuinely cares about others and willingly chooses to help them, even when doing so offers no personal gain. Rather than acting out of obligation or expectation, altruistic individuals often show kindness because they deeply value the happiness and well-being of those around them.
Furthermore, they tend to put others’ needs ahead of their own, which clearly demonstrates their generous and compassionate nature.
Etymology:
The word altruistic has an interesting origin that, over time, reveals how language reflects evolving ideas about selflessness. It comes from the French word “altruiste,” which Auguste Comte, a French philosopher, coined in the 19th century. He based it on the Latin word “alter,” meaning “other.” Essentially, he formed it to describe a person who acts for the benefit of others, not themselves.
As the term evolved and moved into English around the mid-1800s, it retained this same spirit of putting others first. Thus, from its very beginning, the word “altruistic” has always been tied to selfless concern for others’ welfare.
Example Sentences:
- Even though she had little money, Maria regularly donated to local shelters because her altruistic nature guided her actions.
- In addition to volunteering on weekends, he offered free tutoring sessions, which clearly showed his altruistic intentions.
- Rather than seeking praise, they focused entirely on helping others, demonstrating how truly altruistic people behave.
- As the disaster unfolded, her altruistic instincts led her to organize food and medical aid for the affected families.
- Although the job paid less, he chose to work for a nonprofit since his altruistic values meant more than a high salary.
Altruistic Synonyms:
- Selfless
- Generous
- Compassionate
- Charitable
- Kind-hearted
- Benevolent
- Unselfish
- Kindhearted
- Humanitarian
- Public-spirited
Altruistic Antonyms:
- Selfish
- Greedy
- Uncharitable
- Egoistic
- Unsympathetic
- Stingy
- Cold-hearted
- Uncharitable
- Hostile
FAQs about Altruistic
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the word “altruistic”
1. What does “altruistic” mean?
Altruistic describes someone who cares about others and puts their needs first, even if it means making a sacrifice. An altruistic person helps others without expecting anything in return.
2. How do you use “altruistic” in a sentence?
- “Her altruistic actions helped feed hundreds of families.”
- “He made an altruistic choice to donate anonymously.”
- “The doctor’s altruistic spirit inspired everyone around her.”
3. What kind of people are considered altruistic?
People who:
- Help others in need
- Donate time, money, or resources without expecting praise
- Put others’ well-being above their own
- Volunteer or serve their communities selflessly
4. What’s the difference between “altruistic” and “kind”?
While kind means being nice or gentle, altruistic goes deeper—it means doing good for others even at a cost to yourself, often from a strong moral or compassionate motivation.
5. Is “altruistic” always a positive word?
Yes, it’s generally a very positive word. However, some people might use it critically in certain contexts—like if someone is so altruistic that they ignore their own needs.
6. What are some synonyms for “altruistic”?
- Selfless
- Generous
- Compassionate
- Charitable
- Giving
- Philanthropic
7. What’s the opposite of “altruistic”?
- Selfish
- Self-centered
- Greedy
- Egocentric