benevolent
adjectiveattested in dialogue
- //bəˈnɛvələnt//
Having a disposition to do good.
adjective
- 1
Having a disposition to do good.
Chinese and Eastern mythologies describe dragons as benevolent.
Benevolence? vvhich ſhall I be benevolent to; or vvhich firſt? I am puſſell'd in the choice.
- 2
Possessing or manifesting love for mankind.
- 3
Altruistic, charitable, good, just and fair.
This bill was not a gift from a benevolent legislature; it was a victory for the community which worked for its passage.
Etymology
From Old French benevolent, borrowed from Latin benevolēns ("benevolent"). Displaced native Old English welwillende (literally well-wishing).
Forms
- comparative
- more benevolent
- superlative
- most benevolent
beneficiary · One who benefits or receives an advantage.benefit · An advantage; help or aid from something.benefits · public assistance; welfare.
benevolent · Having a disposition to do good.
benign · Kind; gentle; mild.Benito · A male given name from Spanish and Italian, equivalent to…benjamin · A balsamic resin from the bark of Styrax trees used in…