noun

magnanimity

mag-nuh-NIM-uh-tee/ˌmæɡnəˈnɪməti/

Generosity and forgiveness, especially toward rivals or those who have done wrong.

The woman shows magnanimity by forgiving the broken vase and declining compensation.

A woman gently declines compensation and reassures an apologetic visitor who has broken her ceramic vase: she rests a hand on his shoulder while turning his offered banknotes back toward him.

Etymology

magnLatingreat

+animLatinmind, soul, spirit

+ityLatinstate or quality

Literally “greatness of soul,” magnanimity first described elevated thought and worthy conduct. Its meaning narrowed to rising above petty resentment, especially by generously forgiving injuries.

In context

Libranima385:32

filled with admiration at his magnanimity, his generous disposition,

Don Quixote - Cervantes (Illustrated Audiobook) Part 4 of 4

More examples

His magnanimity surprises the coworker who tried to undermine him.
It takes magnanimity to forgive such a public insult.
The winner accepts the apology with magnanimity.

Forms

magnanimity

magnanimous adjective — Generous and forgiving toward rivals or offenders.

Similar words

generosity: Often concerns giving resources, rather than forgiving rivals or offenders.
forgiveness: Focuses on pardoning wrongdoing rather than broader generosity of spirit.