Philanthropies

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Acts of charity involving the donation of resources or time to promote the welfare of others
2. Initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of humanity through financial support or service contributions
3. Organizations or efforts dedicated to improving social conditions and helping those in need through various charitable activities

Etymology: "Philanthropies" is the plural of "philanthropy," used when speaking of several distinct charitable enterprises or kinds of giving. The base word combines two Greek parts: "philos," meaning loving or friendly, and "anthrōpos," meaning human being. Together they form "philanthrōpos," loving toward humankind. In Greek usage the sense was broader and more social than modern charity. The Greek word described a kindly disposition toward others, such as hospitality shown to strangers, and it did not refer specifically to giving money. English received the word through later Latin, and its modern sense of organized aid to humanity developed over the centuries that followed.

Synonyms: charities, donations, contributions, altruism, benefactions