BENEVOLENT


Meaning of BENEVOLENT in English

— benevolently , adv. — benevolentness , n.

/beuh nev"euh leuhnt/ , adj.

1. characterized by or expressing goodwill or kindly feelings: a benevolent attitude; her benevolent smile.

2. desiring to help others; charitable: gifts from several benevolent alumni.

3. intended for benefits rather than profit: a benevolent institution.

[ 1425-75; late ME benevolent- (s. of benevolens ) kindhearted ( bene- BENE- + vol- wish (akin to WILL 1 ) + -ent- -ENT) ]

Syn. 2. good, kind, humane, generous, liberal, benign, philanthropic, altruistic.

Ant . cruel.

Random House Webster's Unabridged English dictionary.      Полный английский словарь Вебстер - Random House .