noun
benefactor
BEH-nuh-fak-tuh
noun
1
A person who gives money or other help, often to a cause, charity, or institution.
"An anonymous benefactor funded the new school library."
"The museum thanked its benefactors at the opening gala."
How to Use Benefactor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who generously gives money or support to help a person or cause.
Common mistake
Don't mix up with beneficiary — the benefactor gives the help, the beneficiary receives it.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
generous benefactor
anonymous benefactor
a benefactor of the arts
Word Forms
benefactors plural
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An anonymous _____ funded the new school library.
Etymology
From Latin benefactor, "one who does good," built from bene ("well") and facere ("to do").