philanthropic, a. (n.)
(fɪlænˈθrɒpɪk)
[ad. F. philanthropique (Mirabeau, 18th c.), f. Gr. ϕιλάνθρωπ-ος (see philanthrope) + -ic (cf. Gr. ἀνθρωπικ-ός, f. ἄνθρωπος).]
Characterized by philanthropy; actuated by love of one's fellow-men; benevolent; humane.
| 1789 (title) First Report of the Philanthropic Society instituted in London, Sept. 1788, for the prevention of Crimes. 1799 Med. Jrnl. I. 263 The philanthropic intentions of a man so zealous in the cause of humanity. 1824 L. Murray Eng. Gram. (ed. 5) I. 507 The eloquent Burke..in his eulogium of the philanthropic Howard. 1874 Green Short Hist. x. §1. 716 The religious and philanthropic movement, which bears the name of Wesley. |
B. n. (nonce-uses.) A philanthropic person or practice: = philanthropist, philanthropy.
| a 1845 Hood Smithfield Market xv, Great philanthropics! pray urge these topics! 1899 Daily News 11 Apr. 2/3 The Councils may be led astray in their philanthropics. |