benefaction

Benefaction, n.

Etymology: [L. benefactio, fr. benefacere to do good to one; bene well + facere to do. See Benefit.]

1. The act of conferring a benefit. Johnson.

2. A benefit conferred; esp. a charitable donation.

Syn. -- Gift; present; gratuity; boon; alms.

Shades of meaning

Fernald has no entry of its own for benefaction; he lists it under gift.

Where he writes about it:

A benefaction is a charitable gift, generally of large amount, and viewed as of enduring value, as an endowment for a college. — from gift