benefactress

[ ben-uh-fak-tris, ben-uh-fak- ]

noun

Origin of benefactress

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English benefactrice; benefactor + -ess

What's the difference between benefactress and benefactor? See -ess.

I think of one whom the poor of a great city know as their benefactress and friend.
The Real Memorial Day: Oliver Wendell Holmes's Salute To A Momentous American Anniversary | Malcolm Jones | May 26, 2014 | THE DAILY BEAST
As soon as they arrive, Inkle goes and sells his benefactress in the slave market.
A Philosophical Dictionary, Volume 1 (of 10) | Franois-Marie Arouet (AKA Voltaire)
Anna in trembling accents thanked her kind benefactress, and hastened to present it to her father as Mrs. Meridith's gift.
The Adopted Daughter | Elizabeth Sandham
Now I do not wonder at your father's agitation at meeting one who reminded him of his lost friend and benefactress.
A Fortune Hunter; Or, The Old Stone Corral | John Dunloe Carteret
She rapidly acquired sufficient influence to supplant her benefactress.
Notes and Queries, Number 218, December 31, 1853 | Various

I rejoiced for my benefactress, I rejoiced for the tender and affectionate Edith.
Ernest Linwood | Caroline Lee Hentz

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