Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

endowment

American  
[en-dou-muhnt] / ɛnˈdaʊ mənt /

noun

  1. the act of endowing.

  2. the property, funds, etc., with which an institution or person is endowed.

    Synonyms:
    bequest, grant, gift
  3. Usually endowments. an attribute of mind or body; a gift of nature.

    Synonyms:
    ability, talent, capacity, capability

endowment British  
/ ɪnˈdaʊmənt /

noun

    1. the source of income with which an institution, etc, is endowed

    2. the income itself

  1. the act or process of endowing

  2. (usually plural) natural talents or qualities

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • nonendowment noun
  • reendowment noun

Etymology

Origin of endowment

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Anglo-French endowement; equivalent to endow + -ment

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“It is likely that all of these factors put pressure on institutions,” leading them to rely more heavily on endowment revenue to cover expenses.

From Barron's

“It is likely that all of these factors put pressure on institutions,” leading them to rely more heavily on endowment revenue to cover expenses.

From Barron's

But experts say that the state program has lacked thorough oversight and accountability, allowing a small group of manufacturers to exploit the program’s robust endowments.

From Los Angeles Times

The returns go back into the school’s endowment.

From The Wall Street Journal

With a $7.7 billion endowment, the Mellon Foundation is the nation’s largest supporter of the arts and humanities.

From The Wall Street Journal