Charity

n. pl. Charities (#).
  1. Love; universal benevolence; good will.
  2. Liberality in judging of men and their actions; a disposition which inclines men to put the best construction on the words and actions of others.
  3. Liberality to the poor and the suffering, to benevolent institutions, or to worthy causes; generosity.
  4. Whatever is bestowed gratuitously on the needy or suffering for their relief; alms; any act of kindness.
  5. A charitable institution, or a gift to create and support such an institution; as, Lady Margaret's charity.
    6. Sisters of Charity (R. C. Ch.),
    a sisterhood of religious women engaged in works of mercy, esp. in nursing the sick; -- a popular designation. There are various orders of the Sisters of Charity.