Definition of generous

The word "generous" has its roots in the Latin word "generosus," which means "noble" or "high-born." This Latin word is derived from "gens," meaning "family" or "descent." In the sense of nobility, a "generosus" person was one who was of noble birth or of a high social standing. The word "generous" was borrowed into Middle English from the Old French "generous," which carried the same meaning. In English, the word initially referred to nobility or high birth, but over time its meaning expanded to include the concept of giving or providing abundant resources, often without expecting anything in return. Today, we use the word "generous" to describe someone who is kind, charitable, and willing to share their resources with others.