charity

/ˈcher-ə-tē/

Middle English charite, from Anglo-French charité, from Late Latin caritat-, caritas Christian love, from Latin, dearness, from carus dear; akin to Old Irish carae friend, Sanskrit kāma love

noun

  1. generosity and helpfulness especially toward the needy or suffering; also : aid given to those in need

  2. an institution engaged in relief of the poor

  3. public provision for the relief of the needy

raised funds for several charities

mercy charity clemency grace leniency mean a disposition to show kindness or compassion. mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it. charity stresses benevolence and goodwill shown in broad understanding and tolerance of others.

noun

  1. a store that sells used clothes, goods, etc., in order to raise money for people who are poor, sick, etc.