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.

Theirs was never glamorous work, but it was done with profound, selfless love.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

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

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

“The most selfless thing for her was to still center the movement, and that meant at the cost of her own silence,” Alvarado said.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

His goal proved the difference against Chelsea, but Gordon's selfless work without the ball was crucial to this win, too.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

They keep themselves wrapped in gray cloth armor and selfless acts, convinced that to share is to be self-indulgent.

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth

Vocabulary lists containing selfless

Giving Words

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

'Tis The Season: Words For Giving

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

You're Too Kind! Synonyms for "Generous"

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!