unselfish
|un-self-ish|
B2
/ʌnˈsɛlfɪʃ/
selfless
Etymology
Etymology Information
'unselfish' originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'selfish', where 'self' meant 'one's own person' and '-ish' meant 'having the nature of'.
Historical Evolution
'unselfish' was formed by adding the prefix 'un-' to the word 'selfish', which was derived from Middle English 'self' and the suffix '-ish'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'not selfish', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
willing to put the needs or wishes of others before one's own.
She is known for her unselfish dedication to her family.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41