# magnanimous

/mæɡˈnænəməs/ (US) · /mæɡnˈænɪməs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/magnanimous
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

very generous and kind, especially when you have power or have won. You forgive people and share freely instead of holding a grudge.

For teachers: generous and forgiving in spirit, especially toward a rival or someone in a weaker position. Often implies nobility of motive rather than mere liberality with money.

## Examples

- She gives a magnanimous smile and forgives the mistake.
- After winning the final, the champion gave a magnanimous speech praising her opponent's effort.
- Despite years of bitter rivalry, his magnanimous decision to share the prize money revealed a generosity that surprised even his closest friends.

## Synonyms

generous, forgiving, gracious, Kind

## Antonyms

Petty, vindictive, spiteful, selfish

## Usage notes

- Typically describes a person or an action such as a gesture, decision, or victory.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.