online medical dictionary | definition of magnanimous

1. Great of mind; elevated in soul or in sentiment; raised above what is low, mean, or ungenerous; of lofty and courageous spirit; as, a magnanimous character; a magnanimous conqueror. "Be magnanimous in the enterprise." (Shak) "To give a kingdom hath been thought Greater and nobler done, and to law down Far more magnanimousan to assume." (Milton)

2. Dictated by or exhibiting nobleness of soul; honorable; noble; not selfish. "Both strived for death; magnanimous debate." (Stirling) "There is an indissoluble union between a magnanimous policy and the solid rewards of public prosperity and felicity." (Washington)

Origin: L. Magnanimus; magnus great + animus mind. See Magnate, and Animus.

(01 Mar 1998)