Which word denotes being charitable or giving?

The term that most directly denotes being charitable or giving is "philanthropic." This word originates from the Greek "philanthropia," which means love for humanity. It specifically refers to acts that involve providing help and resources to those in need, often on a broader scale, such as through donations or establishing foundations.

While "generous," "benevolent," and "compassionate" also relate to kindness and support, they have slightly different connotations. "Generous" primarily describes the quality of being willing to provide more than is expected or necessary, which is a component of philanthropy but doesn't encompass the broader idea of charity. "Benevolent" suggests a goodwill towards others and a desire to promote happiness, while "compassionate" refers to empathy and caring for others in their suffering. Thus, while all these terms relate to positive actions towards others, "philanthropic" is distinct in its focus on charitable giving and efforts aimed at improving societal welfare.