beneficence

American  

[buh-nef-uh-suhns] / bəˈnɛf ə səns /

noun

1. the doing of good; active goodness or kindness; charity.

2. a beneficent act or gift; benefaction.

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Other Word Forms

• nonbeneficence noun

Etymology

Origin of beneficence

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English; French bénéficence, from Latin beneficentia; benefic, -ence

Example Sentences

Thanks to a delicate balance of force, beneficence, and self-interest, the United States would enjoy both great national wealth and historically unprecedented global dominance.

From Salon

All that brainpower would have been for naught, however, save for the beneficence of Uncle Sam.

From Los Angeles Times

This is not, however, the result of cultural beneficence.

From Los Angeles Times

Outside the foundation, her personal beneficence was vast and eclectic.

From New York Times

Accountability is a process to ensure that each action promotes equity and beneficence.

From Seattle Times