Definition of volunteer

The term "volunteer" has been used since the early 17th century to describe individuals who willingly offer their services for a cause without any expectation of payment or reward. The origin of the word "volunteer" can be traced back to the French term "volontaire," which means "willing" or "willing one." In 1625, the word "volontaire" was first recorded in English, in the context of troops that had formed a volunteer regiment during the Thirty Years' War. These troops, consisting of men who had volunteered their services, served alongside regular soldiers in the French army. Over time, the meaning of the term "volunteer" expanded beyond the context of military service. Today, the word is commonly used to describe individuals who donate their time and skills to various causes, such as community service, charity organizations, and political campaigns, among others. In summary, the word "volunteer" originated from the French term "volontaire," which means "willing" or "willing one," and has evolved to describe individuals who willingly offer their services for a cause without receiving payment or reward.