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Endowing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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endowing

[ɪnˈdaʊɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

giving gifts

Endowing refers to the act of providing a talent, quality, or asset to someone or something. In a financial context, it can often mean to provide an institution with a permanent source of income, typically through the provision of funds or property. This term is often used in relation to educational institutions, charities, or foundations that receive endowments to support their activities. Those who endow an entity typically do so out of a desire to contribute to its mission or help ensure its long-term viability.

Synonyms

bestowing, donating, funding, granting.

Examples of usage

  • The philanthropist is endowing a scholarship fund.
  • The university was endowing a new research program.
  • Their generous donation will endow the arts center.
  • She is endowing her alma mater with a sizable bequest.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • The act of endowing can be linked to concepts of generosity, which is highly valued in many philosophical traditions.
  • Some philosophical debates discuss whether endowing someone with qualities like talent is ethical or just based on chance.
  • In ethical discussions, giving support to others is often considered a moral duty, emphasizing community and shared responsibility.

Literature

  • Endowing characters with special attributes or skills is a common literary device to advance stories.
  • Classic literature often explores themes of endowing, where wealth, wisdom, or love transforms lives and narratives.
  • In works like Shakespeare's, characters may be endowed with tragic flaws that lead to their downfall.

Education

  • Many universities are endowed through donations, ensuring that they can provide scholarships and resources.
  • Endowing educational programs can create lasting impacts, allowing future generations to benefit from learning opportunities.
  • The concept emphasizes the importance of investment in knowledge, preserving the legacies of donors.

Cultural Practices

  • In some cultures, children are endowed with heirlooms or skills passed down through generations as a way to preserve family heritage.
  • Endowing newlyweds with gifts or resources is a common practice in many cultures, symbolizing support for their new journey together.
  • Ceremonies often highlight the endowing of responsibilities and roles within communities, marking important transitions.

Origin of 'endowing'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Endowing' comes from the Middle English word 'endowen,' which means to provide with a quality or gift.
  • The root of 'endow' can be traced back to the Latin word 'donare,' which means 'to give.'
  • The word has been used in legal and educational contexts since the 15th century, particularly in terms of funding institutions.

The term 'endow' originated from the Latin word 'dotare', meaning 'to provide or furnish', which was transformed into Middle English through the Old French 'endouer'. This evolution reflects the term's roots in the concept of bestowing or granting a valuable asset. The word has historically been associated with charitable actions, particularly in the context of providing long-term financial support to organizations or institutions. Over the centuries, the usage of 'endow' expanded beyond mere financial contributions to encompass the act of equipping people or organizations with necessary resources or capabilities. Today, 'endowing' encompasses various forms of support, emphasizing the act of giving that aids in sustaining and advancing the goals of others.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,608, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.