selfless

adjective

self·​less ˈsel-fləs How to pronounce selfless (audio)
Synonyms of selfless
: having no concern for self : unselfish
selflessly adverb
selflessness noun

Examples of selfless in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Because the idea that Carla’s character would challenge the selfless-mother stereotype is compelling, the show’s razor-thin characterization of her is frustrating. — Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2026 Last week, Finn was honored for his selfless service, courage and compassion by the mayor, township committee and the police chief. — Ryan Hughes, CBS News, 14 Oct. 2026 Especially if your friends have busy lives or don't often reach out to make plans, putting in the work to stay in touch may seem like a fundamentally selfless gesture. — Renée Onque, CNBC, 10 Oct. 2026 Stagg coach Mike Kealy named Woznik a captain during summer training, acknowledging his natural leadership and selfless play. — Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 23 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for selfless

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of selfless was in 1651

Browse Nearby Words

self-legislating
selfless
self-life
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Selfless.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/selfless. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

selfless

adjective
self·​less ˈsel-fləs How to pronounce selfless (audio)
: having no concern for self : unselfish
selflessly adverb
selflessness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on selfless

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for selfless

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