benefit

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   something that aids or promotes well-being

   for the benefit of all

2. 2
   verb

   to derive an advantage from

   I benefited from the local can drive.

3. 3
   verb

   to be beneficial for

   This new contract benefits our firm greatly.

4. 4
   noun

   An advantage; help or aid from something.

   She can't read, so the voice recording was made for her benefit.

5. 5
   noun

   An event, such as a theatrical performance, given to raise funds for some cause.

   Gore Vidal […] will be sharing his wit and wisdom at the Arlington Street Church on Wednesday, April 5th at 7:00. The appearance is a benefit for the Boston/Boise Committee and the tickets are priced at $5.

6. 6
   noun

   beneficence; liberality

   The Birds, that liue i'th field / On the vvilde Benefit of nature, liue / Happier then vve; for they may chooſe their Mates, / And carroll their ſvveet pleaſures to the Spring: […]

7. 7
   noun

   Intended audience (as for the benefit of).

   The whole scene was staged for his benefit, and it completely fooled him.

8. 8
   verb

   To be or to provide a benefit to.

   […] I will repent of the good; wherewith I saide I would benefite them.

Etymology

From Late Middle English benefytt, benefett, alteration (due to Latin bene-) of benfet, bienfet, bienfait (“good or noble deed”), from Anglo-Norman benfet (“well-done”), Middle French bienfait, from Old French bienfet, bienfait (“foredeal, favour”), from past participle of bienfaire (“to do good, do well”), from bien (“well”) + faire (“to do”), modelled after Latin benefactum (“good deed”). More at benefactor.