Definitions

selfless

[self-lis] / ˈsɛlf lɪs /

ADJECTIVE

unselfish

Synonyms

STRONGEST

altruistic charitable generous humanitarian loving magnanimous noble self-effacing

WEAK

benevolent chivalrous denying devoted disinterested extroverted helpful incorruptible indulgent liberal open-handed self-denying self-forgetful self-forgetting self-sacrificing

Antonyms

STRONGEST

mean selfish stingy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Service to our country, service to the Constitution, selfless service.”

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

“She’s one of the most selfless people I’ve ever played with,” Lauren Betts said of Rice.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 8, 2026

For Emma, who was at home caring for Freya, the gesture meant far more than a one-off selfless deed.

From BBC • Feb. 16, 2026

Still, adults differ widely in how selfless they become.

From Science Daily • Feb. 13, 2026

It will be the last good and selfless thing that he ever does.

From "The Sun Is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon