Syn. — Generous; bountiful; munificent; beneficent; ample; large; profuse; free. — Liberal, Generous. Liberal is freeborn, and generous is highborn. The former is opposed to the ordinary feelings of a servile state, and implies largeness of spirit in giving, judging, acting, etc. The latter expresses that nobleness of soul which is peculiarly appropriate to those of high rank, — a spirit that goes out of self, and finds its enjoyment in consulting the feelings and happiness of others. Generosity is measured by the extent of the sacrifices it makes; liberality, by the warmth of feeling which it manifests.
LIBERAL
Lib"er*al, n.
Defn: One who favors greater freedom in political or religious matters; an opponent of the established systems; a reformer; in English politics, a member of the Liberal party, so called. Cf. Whig.
LIBERALISM
Lib"er*al*ism, n. Etym: [Cf. F. libéralisme.]
Defn: Liberal principles; the principles and methods of the liberals in politics or religion; specifically, the principles of the Liberal party.
LIBERALIST
Lib"er*al*ist, n.
Defn: A liberal.
LIBERALISTIC
Lib`er*al*is"tic, a.
Defn: Pertaining to, or characterized by, liberalism; as, liberalistic opinions.
LIBERALITY Lib`er*al"i*ty, n.; pl. Liberalities. Etym: [L. liberalitas: cf. F. libéralité.]