Mag*nan"i*mous (?), 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.

Be magnanimous in the enterprise.

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

2. Dictated by or exhibiting nobleness of soul; honorable; noble; not selfish.

Both strived for death; magnanimous debate.

There is an indissoluble union between a magnanimous policy and the solid rewards of public prosperity and felicity.

• Noble and generous in spirit
        He thinks himself ardent, impulsive, passionate, magnanimous — capable of boundless enthusiasm for an idea or a sentiment.
  
• Generous and understanding and tolerant
       magnanimous forgiveness