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Definition of benevolence

benevolence

/bəˈnɛvələns/
be · nev · o · lence
Adverb:benevolently
•
Plural:benevolences
•
Adjective:benevolent
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benevolence Lexical Profile

benevolence Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality of being well-meaning, kind, and disposed to do good toward others.

Example

"The community leader was widely admired for her unfailing benevolence and dedication to helping struggling families."

2

A charitable act or generous gift given out of goodwill.

Example

"The scholarship fund was established through the private benevolences of several wealthy alumni."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for benevolence

• Nearby Words

benefit
benefiter
benelux
benevolence
benevolent
benevolently
bengal tiger

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French benivolence, from Latin benevolentia ('good feeling, goodwill, kindness'), formed from bene ('well') and volentem ('wishing'), the present participle of velle ('to wish'). In late medieval English history, it was also used ironical-euphemistically for a forced loan or tax levied by a monarch without parliamentary consent.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Benevolence. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/benevolence
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