Beneficiary: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who will receive benefits, property, or profit from something such as a trust, insurance policy, or will.

• As the beneficiary of the trust, she will receive monthly payments.
• He was named as the primary beneficiary in her will.

Used in general contexts to refer to someone who receives something, such as an award, gift, or message.

• She was the recipient of the prestigious award.
• Every recipient of the email was asked to respond.

Used to describe a person legally entitled to succeed to the property or rank of another on that person's death. Often used in familial contexts.

• He is the heir to the family estate.
• As the eldest daughter, she is the primary heir.

A person who receives a legacy (property or money left to someone in a will). It is typically used in formal or legal contexts.

• The will named several legatees who would inherit various assets.
• He was grateful to be a legatee of his uncle's substantial fortune.

Primarily used in legal contexts to refer to someone who has been given a grant, especially of property or rights.

• The grantee of the land must comply with the terms of the grant.
• She became the grantee of the patent after it was transferred to her.

Use this term in legal or financial contexts where a person or entity is set to receive benefits or profits from a will, trust, insurance policy, or any financial arrangement.

• She named her daughter as the sole beneficiary of her life insurance policy.
• The charity organization was listed as a beneficiary in his will.

Similar to 'covered individual,' but more formal. It is often used in legal and technical insurance documents.

• The insured party will be compensated in case of a loss or damage to the insured property.
• The policy clearly states the obligations of both the insurer and the insured party.

This term is typically used in insurance contexts to refer to a person who is protected by an insurance policy.

• As a covered individual, you are entitled to medical services under your health insurance plan.
• The policy outlines what care the covered individual can receive.

A broad term that can be used in various contexts, including government welfare, humanitarian aid, or employee benefits. It may have a slight negative connotation, suggesting dependence or assistance.

• The recipient of benefits must reapply annually to continue receiving assistance.
• Several families became recipients of benefits after the natural disaster.