ben•e•fit
Pronunciation: (ben'u-fit), [key]
— n., v., -fit•ed, -fit•ing.
—n.
- something that is advantageous or good; an advantage: He explained the benefits of public ownership of the postal system.
- a payment or gift, as one made to help someone or given by a benefit society, insurance company, or public agency: The company offers its employees a pension plan, free health insurance, and other benefits.
- a theatrical performance or other public entertainment to raise money for a charitable organization or cause.
- an act of kindness; good deed; benefaction.
- so as to produce a desired effect in another's mind: He wasn't really angry; that was just an act for his girlfriend's benefit.
—v.t.
- to do good to; be of service to: a health program to benefit everyone.
—v.i.
- to derive benefit or advantage; profit; make improvement: He has never benefited from all that experience.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.