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Volunteer - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A volunteer is a person who willingly offers their time and skills to help others or support a cause without expecting payment. Volunteering often benefits communities, organizations, or individuals in need.

volunteer

/**American phonetic transcription:** ˌvɑlənˈtɪr/ /**British phonetic transcription:** ˌvɒlənˈtɪə/

Definition:

A person who freely offers to take part in an enterprise or undertake a task.

Synonyms:

helper, unpaid worker, altruist, contributor

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

conscript, employee

Common Collocations:

volunteer work, volunteer organization, volunteer time, volunteer effort

Derivatives:

volunteering (noun), voluntary (adjective)

Usage Tips:

Use "volunteer" as a noun for someone offering help or as a verb meaning to offer services willingly without pay.

Common Phrases:

volunteer one's time, volunteer army, willing volunteer

Etymology:

From Latin *voluntarius* ("of one’s free will"), via French *voluntaire*.

Examples:

  • 1. She decided to volunteer at the local animal shelter on weekends.
  • 2. Many students volunteer to gain work experience and help their community.
  • 3. He is a dedicated volunteer for the charity organization.
  • 4. Can you volunteer to organize the event next month?

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