'Philanthropy' definitions:

Definition of 'philanthropy'

From: WordNet
noun
Voluntary promotion of human welfare [syn: philanthropy, philanthropic gift]

Definition of 'Philanthropy'

From: GCIDE
  • Philanthropy \Phi*lan"thro*py\, n. [L. philanthropia, Gr. filanqrwpi`a: cf. F. philanthropie.] Love to mankind; benevolence toward the whole human family; universal good will; desire and readiness to do good to all men; -- opposed to misanthropy. --Jer. Taylor. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. An active effort to promote human welfare; humanitarian activity. in this sense, it is an action, not merely a state of mind. [PJC]
  • 3. An organization whose purpose is to engage in philanthropy(2), and is supported by funds from one or a small number of wealthy individuals; a type of charity, the source of whose funds is typically from a wealthy individual or a corporation, or a trust fund established by a wealthy individual. It is distinguished from other charitable organizations in that the source of funds of other charities may come from a large number of sources, or from public solicitation. [PJC]

Synonyms of 'philanthropy'

From: Moby Thesaurus