1. resembling or characteristic of philanthropy; having the appearance or manner of being philanthropic without genuine charitable intent
Usage: often used critically to suggest superficial or insincere charitable behavior

1. a person who appears to be philanthropic but whose charitable actions are motivated by self-interest or vanity rather than genuine concern
Usage: informal; pejorative

Examples

• His philanthropoid gestures were designed mainly to improve his public image.
• The billionaire's philanthropoid donations were tax write-offs rather than acts of true charity.
• Critics dismissed the corporation's philanthropoid campaign as mere marketing.
• She recognized his philanthropoid behavior as an attempt to gain social status.
• The philanthropoid nature of their foundation became apparent when they refused to fund unpopular causes.
• Many philanthropoids donate only to charities that bear their names.