Did you know that there are some “benevolent” leaders in this world? An example is Lee Kuan Yew, the prime minister of Singapore, who acted in ways that benefited the country, despite not being everyone’s favorite. So, what is the correct “benevolent definition and meaning?”
“Benevolent” is an adjective that means “intending or showing kindness.” When someone is said to be “benevolent,” they are kind and fair. Thus, they do not act in self-interest or decide to favor one person, group, or party over others. Use the word when showing compassion, understanding, and caring.
According to the definition of the word “benevolent,” it might be challenging to understand how it might describe some leaders. Some people even take power by force and act in the country’s interest; they do not use their position for self-gain because they are “benevolent.” That is why very few people have gone into history as “benevolent” leaders. This article will help expound the topic extensively to understand the word better.
What Is the Definition of Benevolent?
The definition of “benevolent” (adjective) is charity organizations that give money and assistance to the people who need it. These are organizations whose end game is not to profit but to help others.
In life, people face many trials, and some of these problems can strain them financially or leave them in a position where they cannot take care of their family or themselves. However, a beaker of hope for such people is the humanity that some organizations show by taking responsibility to help.
“Benevolent” organizations are charitable companies whose mission is to help people with particular needs. Note that some “benevolent” organizations have different mission statements. So, people who need money or assistance need to find an organization whose plan suits their needs.
Example sentences:
- Maxwell got injured in his peacekeeping mission, and his family has been surviving thanks to the Army Benevolent funds.
- Martha was lucky that the benevolent organization took care of all the needs of aged people who have no retirement plan.
What Is the Meaning of Benevolent?
“Benevolent” (adjective) also means possessing or manifesting love for humanity. When you ask most people, they will claim they love to show humanity love, but only a few activities will showcase the right actions to echo their statements.
It is not uncommon for people to ignore someone on the street asking for assistance or someone who needs help. Fortunately, some people are “benevolent” and would not pass someone who needs help when they can offer that assistance; it is such a group we refer to as “benevolent” people. Such people enjoy helping others, and their main characteristic is being warm and friendly.
Example sentences:
- Mother Teresa was one of the most benevolent people in the world, and that is why we will remember her for a long time.
- The one reason the Ellen DeGeneres show is popular is her benevolent nature.
Words Derived From Benevolent
Benevolently (adverb):
In a benevolent manner. Example sentences:
- He smiled benevolently at me.
- The king waved benevolently at the crowd.
Benevolence (noun):
The quality of being well-meaning: kindness. Example sentences:
- Helping your grandmother with the groceries is an act of benevolence.
- The family was poor, but they could eat home-cooked meals each night due to the neighbor’s benevolence.
Common Word Phrase with the Word Benevolent and Their Meaning
You have probably come across the various phrases that accompany the word benevolent. Here are the most common ones:
- Benevolent funds: Funds and trusts meant to relieve society’s poverty.
- Benevolent society: An organization that gives money to and helps a certain group of people in need.
- Benevolent institution: A charitable institution whose main purpose is to relieve poverty or distress.
How to Use Benevolent in a Sentence?
“Benevolent” is a positive word expressed with goodwill and kind feeling. When using it in a sentence, remember that “benevolent” is an adjective.
Can Benevolent be Suggestive in Sentences?
You need to understand that one can sometimes be “benevolent” without doing a charitable act. Such times are when someone’s action suggests that they embrace a “benevolent” attitude.
Example sentences:
- He gave a benevolent smile to the crowd, and everyone immediately knew that his intention was noble.
- Susan gave a benevolent hug to the orphaned child, indicating that she would take the responsibility of bringing up the child.
Synonyms and Antonyms of the Word Benevolent
Learning the synonyms and antonyms of a word helps you have a clearer idea of what it is and what it entails. For example, here are some synonyms and antonyms of the word benevolent.
Synonyms
- Generous
- Kind
- Loving
- Kind-hearted
- Sympathetic
Antonyms
- Selfish
- Unkind
- Tight-fisted
- Unsentimental
- Ruthless
Some words have the same sound and different meanings, and often people confuse them and use them interchangeably. That shouldn’t be the case. Here is a look at words that rhyme with “benevolent.”
- Evident
- Prevalent
- Malevolent
- Redolent
- Reverent
10 Examples of Benevolent in a Sentence
At times, it is not easy to understand the meaning of a word until you see it in a sentence. So, if you are still uncertain how to use “benevolent,” here are some example sentences to help. Read them keenly to understand.
- John was a benevolent man, and when he died, he left $7000 to help orphaned children.
- Sadly, their motives were not so benevolent despite their many promises.
- It is hard to see someone like Mr. Stephen, whose character seems pure and benevolent.
- Any woman would be lucky to marry Smith; he is good-looking and benevolent in disposition.
- Mr. Leon wanted to change his society, so he started a benevolent foundation to help ensure that every child gets educated.
- Holding the door open for the older man to pass was so benevolent of you.
- Ivan was a benevolent man; he dedicated his free time to helping charitable organizations.
- Feeding the hungry is one of the most excellent benevolent deeds.
- I got impressed by Mrs. Alefa’s benevolent act of helping me move to my new apartment,
- I can no longer be a benevolent contributor to your organization during these tough economic times.
How Do You Spell Benevolent?
The spelling of the word “benevolent” is “B.E.N.E.V.O.L.E.N.T.” The scrabble score of the word “benevolent” is 15.
How Do You Pronounce Benevolent?
The pronunciation of the word “benevolent” is “buh.neh·vuh·luhnt.” The first part of the word starts slow and then picks up on the 3rd and 4th syllables.
How Many Syllables Are in Benevolent?
The word benevolent has four syllables, divided as “be.nev.o.lent.” The stressed syllables of the word are “nev”
History & Etymology of Benevolent
“Benevolent” was originally a Latin word “benevolēn.” The word “bene” means “good,” and “velle” means “to wish.” The Old French took the word directly from Latin and used it as “benevolent.”
The Old French defined the word as “wishing someone well.” It was later introduced in the English language as “benevolent,” meaning “wishing to do well.”
When Was Benevolent First Used?
“Benevolent” was first used in the mid-15th century. Learning the word’s origin will help you better understand its transition and usage.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a single word to mean wishing someone well, then the word to use is “benevolent.” The term has been in the English vocabulary since the 15th century, but most people hardly use it. Make a lasting impression by showing you are well-versed in English by learning new words each day. What benevolent definition do you find most applicable in day-to-day activities?
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.