benevolence
Benevolence (noun) means a kind and generous disposition; the wish to do good for others. Example: “The old man was known throughout the village for his quiet benevolence.”
How to Use Benevolence
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA genuine, ongoing kindness toward others — more a character trait than a single act.
Benevolence is the noun (the quality); benevolent is the adjective describing a person or act that shows it.
Word Forms
benevolences plural
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The old man was known throughout the village for his quiet _____.
Etymology
From Latin benevolentia, "good will," combining bene ("well") and volens ("wishing") — from the same root as "voluntary" and "volunteer."
Synonyms
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Related Words
Rhymes for benevolence
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What does “benevolence” mean?
The word “benevolence” means a kind and generous disposition; the wish to do good for others. In plain terms, a genuine, ongoing kindness toward others — more a character trait than a single act.
How do you pronounce “benevolence”?
“Benevolence” is pronounced buh-NEH-vuh-luhns (/bəˈnɛvələns/ in IPA).
How do you use “benevolence” in a sentence?
Here is “benevolence” used in a sentence: “The old man was known throughout the village for his quiet benevolence.”
What is the opposite of “benevolence”?
The opposite of “benevolence” — its antonyms — is malevolence.
What part of speech is “benevolence”?
“Benevolence” is a noun.
Where does the word “benevolence” come from?
The word “benevolence” comes from Latin. From Latin benevolentia, "good will," combining bene ("well") and volens ("wishing") — from the same root as "voluntary" and "volunteer.".
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