do gooder etymology

Etymology

• "Do-gooder" is a colloquial term coined in the late 19th century in the United States.
• It is derived from the verb "do good," meaning to perform acts of kindness or charity.

Meaning

• A person who engages in acts of altruism and social activism, often with the goal of improving the lives of others.
• It can also imply a somewhat condescending attitude towards those who are perceived as overly earnest or self-righteous in their charitable efforts.

Origin

The term "do-gooder" first appeared in the late 1800s in the United States. It was initially used to describe people who engaged in social reforms and philanthropy.

In the early 20th century, the term became more popular and was often used in a derogatory way by those who opposed or distrusted social activism. It was seen as a way to dismiss individuals involved in social causes as naive or overly idealistic.

However, over time, "do-gooder" has come to refer to a more general sense of altruism and charitable behavior. While it can still carry some negative connotations, it is more commonly used to describe those who genuinely care for the well-being of others and are willing to devote time and effort to making a positive impact.

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