Liberality
Noun
Definition: The quality or state of being generous; the act of giving freely or abundantly.
Synonyms: Generosity, Munificence, Liberality, Bountifulness
Antonyms: Stinginess, Selfishness, Meanness
- The businessman was renowned for his liberality in donating to various charities.
- She showed great liberality by treating all her friends to dinner.
- Think of "liberality" as the quality of being "liberal" in giving or sharing resources.
Etymology:
Middle English, from Latin 'liberalitas', from 'liberalis' (meaning liberal, generous)
Historical Usage:The word "liberality" has been used since the Middle Ages, primarily in the context of describing acts of generosity or abundance.
Related Idioms:
"Liberality of spirit"
Explanation:Refers to a person's broad-mindedness or open-heartedness in accepting and embracing different ideas or perspectives.
Misconceptions:
Equating "liberality" with political liberalism.
Explanation:While "liberality" shares the same root as "liberal," in the context of the word, it primarily refers to generosity and open-handedness rather than a specific political ideology. It is important to distinguish the word's meaning from its potential political connotations.