Benefactor
Noun
Definition: A person who gives help, especially financial assistance, to another.
Synonyms: Patron, Supporter, Backer
Antonyms: Recipient, Beneficiary
Examples:
- The local philanthropist acted as a benefactor for the community center.
- The anonymous benefactor donated a large sum of money to the charity.
Mnemonics:
- Think of a benefactor as someone who benefits another person through their support.
Etymology:
Origin:
Late Middle English from Latin 'benefactor', from bene 'well' + factor 'doer'.
Historical Usage:The word 'benefactor' has been used in English since the late Middle Ages with a consistent meaning of someone who gives assistance or support.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Benefactor of mankind"
Explanation:A person who has made significant contributions or improvements for the benefit of all humanity.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing 'benefactor' with 'beneficiary'.
Explanation:A benefactor is someone who gives help, while a beneficiary is someone who receives help or benefits from another.