Etymology Map
Back to all words

Benevolent

2 stages from Latin to English.

Today it means well-meaning and kindly

Where does the word "benevolent" come from? It comes from Latin benevolens, adopted directly into English (1400s).

1
Stage 1 of 2
benevolens
Latin · ancient
"well-wishing"
'bene', well, plus 'velle', to wish
2
Stage 2 of 2
benevolent
English · 1400s
"well-wishing"
'malevolent' is its opposite
Drag to pan · scroll to zoom
Read the full story

Benevolent’s story begins in Latin: benevolens meant “well-wishing.” 'bene', well, plus 'velle', to wish. It reached English by 1400s as benevolent. 'malevolent' is its opposite. Today, benevolent means well-meaning and kindly.