Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

good-samaritan

noun

ɡʊd səˈmɛrɪtən

Definition

A good Samaritan is a person who selflessly helps others in need, often without expecting anything in return.

Examples

After seeing the accident, she became a good Samaritan by helping the victims until the ambulance arrived.
He is known in our community as a good Samaritan for always volunteering to assist the homeless.

Meaning

The term comes from a biblical parable about a Samaritan who helped an injured traveler while others passed by. Today, it refers to anyone who acts generously and compassionately towards those in difficulty.