Definition of "charity" in English

noun

1. (countable) An organization, the objective of which is to carry out a charitable purpose.

   • The event raised money for local charities.
   • He donated half his earnings to charity.
   • give to charity
   • registered charity

2. (countable) The goods or money given to those in need.

3. (uncountable) Benevolence to others less fortunate than ourselves; the providing of goods or money to those in need.

   • act of charity

4. In general, an attitude of kindness and understanding towards others, now especially suggesting generosity.

   • July 20, 1677, John Mitchell Mason, letter to a friend Judge thyself with the judgment of sincerity, and thou witl judge others with the judgment of charity.

5. (archaic, Christianity) Christian love; representing God's love of man, man's love of God, or man's love of his fellow-men.

6. (US, Philippines, basketball, informal) A free throw.