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.
Shak.
To give a kingdom hath been thought
Greater and nobler done, and to lay down
Far more magnanimous than to assume.
Milton.
2. Dictated by or exhibiting nobleness of
soul; honorable; noble; not selfish.
Both strived for death; magnanimous
debate.
Stirling.
There is an indissoluble union between a
magnanimous policy and the solid rewards of public prosperity
and felicity.
Washington.