benevolent
- Well-meaning and kindly disposed toward others, often expressed through charitable or generous acts.
In a sentence
- The benevolent founder donated millions to build libraries in underserved communities.
- She gave a benevolent smile to the nervous student before the presentation began.
Usage note. 'Benevolent' describes an attitude of goodwill; 'charitable' more specifically implies giving material help — both can overlap but are not always interchangeable.
Where it comes from
English benevolent — “well-meaning, kindly” · entered English 15th c.
From Latin 'benevolens' (genitive 'benevolentis'), composed of 'bene' meaning 'well' and 'volens', the present participle of 'velle' meaning 'to wish'. It entered English in the 15th century directly from Latin or via Old French. The word literally means 'wishing well' to others (source: Oxford, Merriam-Webster).