Definitions

volunteer

[vol-uhn-teer] / ˌvɒl ənˈtɪər /

VERB

offer to do something

Synonyms

STRONGEST

come forward enlist sign up step forward suggest

STRONG

advance present proffer propose tender

WEAK

bring forward chip in do on one's own volition go in let oneself in for offer services put at one's disposal put forward speak up stand up submit oneself take bull by the horns take initiative take the plunge take upon oneself

Antonyms

STRONG

take back

WEAK

compel force obligate

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.

“The root cause is definitely the staffing and overreliance on people to volunteer to do extra.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 26, 2026

“The young men were so rowdy,” one Red Cross volunteer said in a telephone interview.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 26, 2026

Wednesday, including the home and business of volunteer Leo Martinez, who said federal agents pointed guns at him and his mother during the search, but made no arrests.

From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026

Julian suggested to another volunteer about selling items outside.

From BBC • May 19, 2026

“There are federal funds set aside to pay for supplies, but all the work must be done on a volunteer basis.”

From Full of Beans by Jennifer L. Holm

Vocabulary lists containing volunteer

Giving Words

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Memorial Day Words

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Memorial Day: Words of Respect and Remembrance

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