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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beneficence British  

/ bɪˈnɛfɪsəns /

noun

1. the act of doing good; kindness

2. a charitable act or gift

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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; see 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

There’s no better place to start than with Zackey Rahimi, a recipient of the 5th Circuit’s highly selective beneficence.

From Slate • Oct. 1, 2023

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

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 10, 2023

Schneider dispensed deadpan punch lines, Pierson spoke with hippie beneficence and Wilson talked movingly about the death of her brother, Ricky.

From New York Times • Aug. 10, 2022

However, the last seven years have been years of droughtless beneficence.

From "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote