magnanimous

Definition

Very generous or forgiving, especially toward a rival or less powerful person. Noble and generous in spirit, particularly when one could choose to be vengeful or petty.

Etymology

From Latin 'magnanimus' meaning 'great-souled,' from 'magnus' (great) and 'animus' (soul, mind). The word entered English in the 16th century, carrying the classical virtue of noble generosity and forgiveness.

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