Meaning & Definition of word "Volunteer"

Volunteer

/ˈvɒl.ən.tɪr/

noun:

  • 1. A person who freely offers to take part in an activity or service without being paid.
    • Example: She became a volunteer at the local animal shelter to help care for abandoned pets.
  • 2. A person who offers to help with a cause or organization, especially for charitable purposes.
    • Example: The volunteers organized a fundraiser to support disaster relief efforts.

verb:

  • 1. To offer oneself for a service or undertaking voluntarily.
    • Example: He decided to volunteer for the community cleanup event this weekend.
  • 2. To give one's time or services without expecting payment.
    • Example: Many people volunteer their time in various community projects.

Etymology

From the French 'volontaire', from Latin 'voluntarius' meaning 'willing'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

volunteer work:

Unpaid work performed for the benefit of the community.

volunteer firefighter:

A firefighter who offers their services without pay.

volunteer army:

A military force made up of individuals who enlist voluntarily.

Related Words

voluntarism:

The principle of voluntary action.

voluntary:

Done, given, or acting of one's own free will.

Slang Meanings of volunteer

Meaning: To sign up for something without being asked.

Example Sentence: I just volunteered to help with the event.

Meaning: To step up and take charge.

Example Sentence: He volunteered to lead the project.