Definition of beneficial

< beneficent

beneficiary >

ben·e·fi·cial    (bn-fshl) KEY 

ADJECTIVE:

1. Producing or promoting a favorable result; advantageous.
2. Law Receiving or having the right to receive proceeds or other advantages.

---

ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old French beneficial, from Late Latin beneficilis, from Latin beneficium, benefit ; see benefice

OTHER FORMS:
bene·ficial·ly(Adverb), bene·ficial·ness(Noun)

SYNONYMS:
beneficial, profitable, advantageous

These adjectives apply to what promotes a favorable result or gain. Beneficial is said of what enhances well-being: a trade agreement beneficial to all countries. Profitable refers to what yields material gain or useful compensation: profitable speculation on the stock market. Something advantageous affords improvement in relative position or in chances of success: found it socially advantageous to entertain often and well.