noun
alms
AHMZ/ɑːmz/
Money or goods given to poor people as charity.
The traveler gives alms to people waiting outside the temple.
Etymology
Greek eleēmosynē moved from “pity” or “mercy” to charitable action. Alms names the practical expression of that compassion: money or goods given to relieve people in need.
In context
Monasteries also had an obligation to offer hospitality to travellers and alms to the poor.
More examples
- The congregation collects alms for families without food.
- She distributes alms quietly rather than seeking public praise.
- The historical account describes beggars asking for alms.