giver

A giver is a person who gives something to others, whether a material item, help, time, or services. In everyday language, a giver may donate money to a cause, share resources with those in need, or offer support to friends and family. The term is neutral and can describe charitable actions, informal generosity, or roles such as a donor or benefactor. Phrases like gift giver or caregiver are common, though the latter often denotes a more specific caregiving role rather than mere generosity.

Etymology and usage: The word giver is formed from the verb give with the agentive suffix -er, a pattern found in many languages. In Old English, forms such as gifa/giefa are attested for “one who gives,” and this lineage continues into modern English through giver.

The Giver and related concepts: The capitalized form The Giver refers to a 1993 dystopian novel by Lois Lowry. The story follows a boy named Jonas in a highly controlled society as he becomes the Receiver of Memory, uncovering the costs of conformity and the loss of choice. The novel won the Newbery Medal in 1994 and has been adapted into a 2014 feature film directed by Phillip Noyce. The title character’s role as the repository of memories has made The Giver a touchstone in discussions of memory, individuality, and ethics in society.

In broader discussions, the term giver is used in studies of philanthropy, volunteering, and social exchange to describe contributors whose actions affect others’ well-being. The opposite concept is receiver or beneficiary.