benevolence

Definition

Disposition to do good.

Etymology

Circa 1400, original sense “good will, disposition to do good”, Old French benivolence from Latin benevolentia (also directly from Latin), literally “good will”, from bene (“well, good”) + volentia, form of volēns, form of volō (“I wish”), components cognate to English benefit and voluntary, more distantly will (via Proto-Indo-European).

Example Sentences

• "gesture of benevolence"
• "show benevolence"
• "spirit of benevolence"