benevolent (bɪˈnɛvələnt
)
Definitions
adjective
- intending or showing goodwill; kindly; friendly ⇒
a benevolent smile
a benevolent old man
- doing good or giving aid to others, rather than making profit; charitable ⇒
a benevolent organization
Alternative Forms
beˈnevolently adverbWord Origin
C15: from Latin benevolēns , from bene well + velle to wishSynonyms
View thesaurus entry=
kind,
good,
kindly,
understanding,
caring,
liberal,
generous,
obliging,
sympathetic,
humanitarian,
charitable,
benign,
humane,
compassionate,
gracious,
indulgent,
amiable,
amicable,
lenient,
cordial,
considerate,
affable,
congenial,
altruistic,
philanthropic,
bountiful,
beneficent,
well-disposed,
kind-hearted,
warm-hearted,
bounteous,
tender-hearted,
=
charitable,
Usage examples
The Central Intelligence Agency suggests a benevolent institution, supported by bequests, rich in academic honours.
, Skorpion's Death (1985)The challenge was all the more daunting as the company was always known to be a benevolent employer.
Business Today (1998)It is run using skilful financial methods so that we can afford to support benevolent programs, such as meals to homeless young people.
Courier, Sunday Mail (2004)This certainly wasn't the soothing, calm O'Neill full of benevolent blarney about hapless opponents.
Glasgow Herald (2002)Some were pointedly critical of the founding fathers and challenged the benevolent patronage of men of science.
, Trauma and Recovery (1992)