Volunteer

Definition

Volunteer is a noun referring to a person who offers to perform a task or service willingly without being paid. As a verb, it means to offer oneself for a task, service, or responsibility without being obligated. It can also be an adjective describing something performed or undertaken freely.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌvɑː.lənˈtɪr/
• Respelling: VAH-luhn-teer

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌvɒl.ənˈtɪə/
• Respelling: VOL-uhn-teer

Etymology

The word "volunteer" originates from the French "volontaire," which derives from the Latin "voluntarius," meaning "willing" or "of one’s own choice," based on "voluntas" (will or desire). Its use in English dates back to the early 17th century.

Derivatives

• Voluntary (adjective)
• Voluntarily (adverb)
• Voluntarism (noun)
• Voluntarist (noun/adjective)
• Volunteering (noun/verb)

Synonyms

• Helper
• Contributor
• Donor

Antonyms

• Employee
• Paid worker
• Compelled worker

Usage

As a noun, "volunteer" is used to describe someone offering their time or effort freely. For example, "She became a volunteer at the local shelter."

As a verb, "volunteer" describes the act of offering oneself for a role or responsibility. For example, "He volunteered to lead the team."

As an adjective, "volunteer" denotes activities undertaken freely. For example, "The organization relies on volunteer support."

Related Terms

• Philanthropy: The act of promoting the welfare of others, often through donations.
• Charity: An organization set up to provide help to those in need.
• Altruism: The practice of selfless concern for the well-being of others.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person who freely offers to take part in an activity: Refers to someone offering their time or skills without being paid.
  • Example: "The hospital relies on volunteers to support its operations."
• A plant that grows on its own without being intentionally planted: Used in botanical contexts.
  • Example: "A volunteer tomato plant appeared in the garden."

Verb

• To offer one’s time, services, or effort freely: Refers to willingly taking part in a task or activity.
  • Example: "She volunteered to help with the fundraising event."
• To suggest something without being asked: Indicates offering information or assistance spontaneously.
  • Example: "He volunteered his opinion during the meeting."

Adjective

• Performed or undertaken freely: Refers to activities or efforts done by choice.
  • Example: "The organization depends on volunteer labor."