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benevolent

/bɪˈnɛv(ə)l(ə)nt/adjective

Kind-hearted and wishing to do good for others.

Example sentences

  • “The charity was founded by a benevolent businessman who wanted to help local schools.”
  • “Everyone in the village loved the benevolent old doctor who treated the poor for free.”

Often applied to those with power over others: a benevolent ruler, a benevolent employer. "Benevolent dictator" is a common half-joke.

Featured as word of the day on April 14, 2026.

Synonyms for benevolent

Antonyms

Find it in: Advanced English words, Positive words, Words to describe a person.

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