benevolence

noun

be·​nev·​o·​lence bə-ˈnev-lən(t)s 

-ˈne-və-

1

: disposition to do good

a king known for his benevolence

2

a

: an act of kindness

b

: a generous gift

3

: a compulsory contribution or tax levied by certain English kings with no other authority than the claim of prerogative (see prerogative sense 1b)

Did you know?

Part of benevolence comes from the Latin root meaning "wish". The novels of Charles Dickens often include a benevolent figure who rescues the main characters at some point--Mr. Brownlow in Oliver Twist, Abel Magwitch in Great Expectations, Mr. Jarndyce in Bleak House, Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol. To be benevolent, it helps to have money, but it's not necessary; kind assistance of a nonfinancial sort may turn out to be lifesaving benevolence as well.

Synonyms

• boon
• courtesy
• favor
• grace
• indulgence
• kindness
• mercy
• service
• turn

Examples of benevolence in a Sentence

self-effacing as well as selfless, he refused all public acknowledgement of his many benevolences to the community

her benevolence towards her employees was such that she actually let one live in her home temporarily

Recent Examples on the Web

In fact, the representation of A.I. is almost sympathetic, suggesting the possibility that machines could learn grace and benevolence. —Hua Hsu, The New Yorker, 9 Sep. 2024

Such myths helped maintain a comfort with Black success that could still be traced back to white benevolence. —Victor Luckerson, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Sep. 2024

Cultural ties also played a role in the benevolence of the community, says Mr. Ogar, the government official working on refugee resettlement. —Ogar Monday, The Christian Science Monitor, 22 July 2024

Other scientists have said Neanderthals may have provided care to sick or injured members of their group with the expectation of a reciprocal benefit, rather than out of benevolence. —Frances Vinall, Washington Post, 27 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

see benevolent

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

benevolence

noun

be·​nev·​o·​lence bə-ˈnev(-ə)-lən(t)s 

: kindness, generosity