phi·lan·thro·py (fĭ-lān'thrə-pē) n.
pl. phi·lan·thro·pies
The effort or inclination to increase the well-being of humankind, as by charitable aid or donations. Love of humankind in general. Something, such as an activity or institution, intended to promote human welfare.
[Late Latin philanthrōpia, from Greek, from philanthrōpos, humane, benevolent : phil-, philo-, philo- + anthrōpos, man, mankind.] phi·lan'thro·pist n. |