Definitions

volunteer

[vol-uhn-teer] / ˌvɒl ənˈtɪər /

VERB

offer to do something

Synonyms

STRONGEST

come forward enlist sign up step forward suggest

STRONG

advance present proffer propose tender

WEAK

bring forward chip in do on one's own volition go in let oneself in for offer services put at one's disposal put forward speak up stand up submit oneself take bull by the horns take initiative take the plunge take upon oneself

Antonyms

STRONG

take back

WEAK

compel force obligate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It’s going to be weird cleaning fossils without anybody watching, volunteer preparators said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

One canvasser, Timothy Nikonorov, explained that he had been an active volunteer with Mamdani’s campaign before becoming a frequent canvasser for Park, and an occasional canvassing lead.

From Salon • Jun. 4, 2026

Amparo Urzainqui, a 66-year-old volunteer with the Catholic charity Caritas in Gran Canaria who assists migrants, said "they need to feel welcomed in our communities."

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

Estonian troops, as well as the Estonian Defense League, a volunteer force established to help support the small country’s regular military, frequently use the facility to test drones and counterdrone electronic warfare.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

“Would anyone like to volunteer to begin this particular recap session?” he asked, his sharp eyes scanning the room.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin

Vocabulary lists containing volunteer

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Memorial Day: Words of Respect and Remembrance

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