n. [ F. magnanimité, L. magnanimitas. ] The quality of being magnanimous; greatness of mind; elevation or dignity of soul; that quality or combination of qualities, in character, which enables one to encounter danger and trouble with tranquility and firmness, to disdain injustice, meanness and revenge, and to act and sacrifice for noble objects. [ 1913 Webster ]

a.[ L. magnanimus; magnus great + animus mind. See Magnate, and Animus. ] 1. Great of mind; elevated in soul or in sentiment; raised above what is low, mean, or ungenerous; of lofty and courageous spirit; as, a magnanimous character; a magnanimous conqueror. [ 1913 Webster ]

Be magnanimous in the enterprise. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

To give a kingdom hath been thought
Greater and nobler done, and to lay down
Far more magnanimous than to assume. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Dictated by or exhibiting nobleness of soul; honorable; noble; not selfish. [ 1913 Webster ]

Both strived for death; magnanimous debate. Stirling. [ 1913 Webster ]

There is an indissoluble union between a magnanimous policy and the solid rewards of public prosperity and felicity. Washington. [ 1913 Webster ]

adv. In a magnanimous manner; with greatness of mind. [ 1913 Webster ]