# philanthropist

/fəˈɫænθɹəpəst/ (US) · /fɪlˈænθɹəpˌɪst/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/philanthropist
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. a charitable donor

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a person who gives a lot of money to help people or support charities.

For teachers: a person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially by the generous donation of money to good causes.

- The local library was built thanks to a gift from a wealthy philanthropist.
- The museum's new wing was funded entirely by an anonymous philanthropist who has supported the arts for decades.

### 2. lover of humanity

noun · CEFR C2 · Literary · Formal

someone who loves and cares about all humans.

For teachers: one who possesses a general love for humankind; the literal, etymological sense of the term.

- He was a true philanthropist who believed in the goodness of every person.
- In his philosophical essays, he presents himself as a philanthropist, arguing that the advancement of the species is the highest moral calling.

## Examples

- The local philanthropist donated millions to the new library.
- After retiring from his tech career, he became a full-time philanthropist focusing on global health initiatives.
- While many wealthy individuals make occasional donations, a true philanthropist develops a strategic vision for social change and commits significant resources to long-term systemic improvements.

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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.