altruistic

[al-troo-IS-tik]
Phonetic (Standard) IPA: (Hops is not beer)
Popcast Phonetic: “al-TRUE-is-tick” — say it like someone selflessly handing you their last slice of pizza even though it’s perfectly good.

Adjective

showing unselfish concern for the well-being of others; generous in a way that makes you go “Wow, I guess not everyone is here just for the popcorn.”

EXPLANATION

Altruistic describes actions done purely out of kindness — not for likes, not for clout, not for better camera angles — just because. Think of the friend who refills someone else’s popcorn bowl before their own, or the person who lets you have the last slice of pizza and swears they’re “good, honestly!” This isn’t just giving; it’s giving with a halo and a free side of empathy.

ORIGIN

From French altruisme (1850s), derived from Italian altrui (“of others”), and rooted in Latin alteri (“to others”). Basically: language’s way of saying “look out for the other guy,” centuries before we even had delivery apps.

EXAMPLE

The altruistic volunteer showed up at the community pantry every weekend, passing out meals, snacks, and good vibes like someone on a mission to spread kindness with extra cheese.

HOW TO USE

Use altruistic when someone truly goes out of their way to help others — like when your friend insisted you take the comfiest seat, the biggest slice, and all the popcorn, saying, “I’m being totally altruistic here!” while they sit like a saint on a couch.