benefactress

[ ben-uh-fak-tris, ben-uh-fak- ]

noun

1. a woman who confers a benefit, bequest, endowment, or the like.

Gender Note

What's the difference between benefactress and benefactor? See -ess.

Word History and Origins

Origin of benefactress¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English benefactrice; benefactor + -ess

Example Sentences

I think of one whom the poor of a great city know as their benefactress and friend.

From The Daily Beast

As soon as they arrive, Inkle goes and sells his benefactress in the slave market.

From Project Gutenberg

Anna in trembling accents thanked her kind benefactress, and hastened to present it to her father as Mrs. Meridith's gift.

From Project Gutenberg

Now I do not wonder at your father's agitation at meeting one who reminded him of his lost friend and benefactress.

From Project Gutenberg

She rapidly acquired sufficient influence to supplant her benefactress.

From Project Gutenberg

I rejoiced for my benefactress, I rejoiced for the tender and affectionate Edith.

From Project Gutenberg