Magnanimous

adjective

/mæɡˈnæn.ɪ.məs/

Showing a generous, noble, and forgiving spirit, especially towards a rival or a defeated opponent; rising above pettiness, resentment, or vindictiveness. It denotes a loftiness of mind that disdains small-minded retaliation.

✍️ Usage in a UPSC answer

A mature democracy is judged not by the severity of the victor but by the magnanimous restraint with which a ruling majority accommodates the dissent and dignity of the defeated, for it is generosity in power, rather than its mere exercise, that secures lasting legitimacy.

Synonyms

generousnoblebig-heartedforgivingbenevolentcharitable

Antonyms

pettyvindictivemean-spiritedungenerous

🌱 Word Family

magnanimously (adv), magnanimity (n), magnanimousness (n)

🔡 Root

Latin magnus = great (PIE meg-) + animus = mind, soul, spirit → magnanimus = great-souled

📜 Etymology

From Latin magnanimus 'high-minded, great-souled', from magnus 'great' (PIE root *meg- 'great') + animus 'mind, soul, spirit'; English use dates from the 1580s.

🧠 Memory Hook

Magna ("great", as in Magna Carta) + animus ("soul") = a "great soul" - a person too big-hearted to stoop to petty revenge. Think of a "magnanimous" winner who is too magnificent to gloat.

🧭 Ethics & Integrity 📖 Seen in: Attitude, Aptitude & Foundational Valu...

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