Words / C2

BEN-if-akt-uh/ˈbenɪfæktə/

A benefactor is someone who gives money or help to a person or cause: a generous benefactor, thank the benefactor. Donor (already in the dictionary) is everyday and often of blood or a gift; endow (already in the dictionary) is to give a lasting fund. A sycophant (already in the dictionary) flatters for gain — the opposite flavour of motive. A logo on the wall is not a spare invigilator.

Meaning

A person who gives money or other help to a person or cause.

Examples

• “A benefactor’s logo is not a spare invigilator.”
• “Donor is everyday (already in B2). Endow is to fund lastingly (already in C2). A sycophant is a flatterer (already in C2). A named gift can be exact and still welcome. A plate that never staffs the night chair is decoration. Fill the rota; then the plaque.”

Good to know

A generous donor. Everyday: donor (already in this dictionary). Close: patron. Contrast: sycophant (flatterer — already in C2). A logo is not cover.

Near in meaning

donor, patron, philanthropist, sponsor

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