a foundation created to promote the public good (not for assistance to any particular individuals)
"The university received funding from a local charity dedicated to advancing scientific research rather than providing direct aid to students."
a kindly and lenient attitude toward people
"The judge showed great charity by giving the young offender a suspended sentence instead of prison time."
an activity or gift that benefits the public at large
"The new bridge is a charity project funded by donations from hundreds of local residents."
pinnate-leaved European perennial having bright blue or white flowers
"The charity bloomed in late spring, its delicate white petals contrasting beautifully against the garden's green foliage."
an institution set up to provide help to the needy
"After graduating, she volunteered at a local charity that provides food and shelter to homeless families."
An organization, the objective of which is to carry out a charitable purpose.
"The local charity distributed food and clothing to families in need during the winter months."
In plain English: Charity is money, food, or help that you give to people who need it because they are struggling.
"She donated her old clothes to charity so they could be given to people in need."
Usage: Use charity when referring specifically to an institution or group dedicated to helping those in need, rather than using it as a synonym for general kindness. Distinguish between acts of giving and the formal organizations that manage such efforts on a large scale.
A female given name from English.
"My aunt named her daughter Charity after a beloved novel character."
The word charity comes from the Latin cāritās, which originally meant "dearness" or "high price." It traveled into English through Middle French and Middle English before evolving to mean selfless giving.