volunteer
/vɒl.ənˈtɪə/ · vol. un. teer
noun
- One who enters into, or offers for, any service of his/her own free will, especially when done without pay. She volunteered at the local animal shelter.
- One who enters into military service voluntarily, but who, when in service, is subject to discipline and regulations like other soldiers; -- opposed to conscript; specifically, a voluntary member of the organized militia of a country as distinguished from the standing army. The volunteer soldiers were trained to respond to emergencies.
- A person who acts out of his own will without a legal obligation, such as a donor. He volunteered a large sum of money to the charity.
verb
- To enlist oneself as a volunteer. She volunteered for the army.
- To do or offer to do something voluntarily. He volunteered to do the dishes.
- To offer, usually unprompted. She volunteered an explanation for her tardiness.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Did you know? The term 'volunteer' has been used in various contexts since the 15th century, initially referring to individuals who offered their services without expectation of payment or reward.