NYT Dictionary

BENEFIT

/ˈbɛn.ɪˌfɪt/
NounVerbBEN-e-fitben-e-fit · 3 syllablesGrade 6

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2023, 2025

Meaning

An advantage; help or aid from something.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English

From Late Middle English benefytt, benefett, alteration (due to Latin bene-) of benfet, bienfet, bienfait (“good or noble deed”), from Anglo-Norman benfet (“well-done”), Middle French bienfait, from Old French bienfet, bienfait (“foredeal, favour”), from past participle of bienfaire (“to do good, do well”), from bien (“well”) + faire (“to do”), modelled after Latin benefactum (“good deed”). More at benefactor.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

foredealadvantageaidassistanceboonhelppercentagesubsidybattenbehoove

Antonyms

harmdisadvantageencumbrancehindrancemalefitnuisanceobstacledetrimentmalefic

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 2 recorded puzzles:

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