benevolence
buh-NEH-vuh-luhns
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.”
noun
1
A kind and generous disposition; the wish to do good for others.
"The old man was known throughout the village for his quiet benevolence."
"The charity relies entirely on the benevolence of local donors."
"She smiled with benevolence at the children."
How to use benevolence
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA genuine, ongoing kindness toward others — more a character trait than a single act.
Common mistake
Benevolence is the noun (the quality); benevolent is the adjective describing a person or act that shows it.
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Plural
- benevolences
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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
See all rhymes for benevolence →Frequently asked questions
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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