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.

---

beneficence British  

/ bɪˈnɛfɪsəns /

noun

1. the act of doing good; kindness

2. a charitable act or gift

---

Other Word Forms

• nonbeneficence noun

Etymology

Origin of beneficence

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

Explanation

If you show someone kindness or generosity, that's beneficence like when you shovel a neighbor's sidewalk or mow their lawn just to help out, no strings attached. Beneficence comes from the Latin word benefactum, meaning "good deed." That's exactly what beneficence is — helping someone just because you care, not because you want to be praised for being nice. Giving your time, skills, or even a donation of money or items shows beneficence. This word can also describe the character of a person who is helpful, caring, and compassionate.

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 • Dec. 27, 2025

Paula Keeler, 74, took a break from her recent shift inspecting produce to discuss the organization’s beneficence.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2025

For the moral physician, beneficence must always exceed maleficence.

From Slate • Aug. 20, 2024

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

From New York Times • Jul. 16, 2022

Erwin’s beneficence, however, did not silence the rising critics of a system that traded informal “favors” for complete submission to the owner’s authority.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson