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Endowment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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endowment

[ษชnหˆdaสŠmษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

finance

The action of endowing something or someone. In finance, endowment refers to a large sum of money or property that is given to an organization, especially a university, to provide income for its continued support.

Synonyms

bequest, donation, grant.

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Word Description / Examples
endowment

This term is often used to refer to funds or property that are donated to institutions, particularly educational or charitable organizations, where the principal amount is kept intact and only the income generated is used for specific purposes.

  • The university's endowment fund supports scholarships for underprivileged students.
  • Thanks to a generous endowment, the hospital can now expand its research facilities.
grant

Grants are sums of money given by an organization, especially a government, foundation, or corporation, for a specific purpose such as research, education, or community projects.

  • The research team received a grant to study renewable energy sources.
  • Small businesses can apply for grants to help them recover from the impact of natural disasters.
donation

This term is commonly used for voluntary giving of money, goods, or time to people in need or to organizations, without expecting anything in return. It is often used in fundraising contexts.

  • They made a generous donation to the homeless shelter.
  • The charity relies on donations from the public to fund its programs.
bequest

A bequest typically refers to the act of leaving assets to someone through a will. It is often used in the context of estate planning and inheritance.

  • She made a bequest of her jewelry to her granddaughter.
  • His will included a bequest to the local animal shelter.

Examples of usage

  • The university received a generous endowment from a wealthy alumni.
  • The endowment fund was established to support research and scholarships.
Context #2 | Noun

legal

The act of legally transferring property, title, or rights to another person. Endowment in legal terms can refer to the transfer of assets or funds as a gift or inheritance.

Synonyms

allocation, bestowal, conferment.

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Word Description / Examples
endowment

This entry appears to be duplicated. Please see above.
bestowal

Refers to the act of giving something of great value or honor in a formal or ceremonial way.

  • The king's bestowal of the knighthood was a moment of great honor for the recipient
conferment

Often used in academic or formal settings when an authority grants an official title, degree, or honor.

  • The conferment of the honorary doctorate was the highlight of the commencement ceremony
allocation

Commonly used in financial or resource distribution, focusing on the process of assigning particular amounts to specific areas or purposes.

  • The manager was responsible for the allocation of the annual budget to different departments

Examples of usage

  • The endowment of the estate to the heirs was contested in court.
  • She decided to endow her artwork collection to a museum.
Context #3 | Noun

education

An income or property given to a school, college, or other institution for support. Endowment in the context of education is often used to refer to financial resources provided to academic institutions.

Synonyms

funding, grant, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
endowment

Typically used in the context of financial donations that are designed to be invested so that the resulting income can be used for specific purposes, often for institutions like universities or nonprofit organizations.

  • The university received a large endowment from an alumnus to fund new scholarships.
  • Her endowment to the art museum will help ensure its exhibitions continue for years to come.
funding

General term for any money provided for a particular purpose, often for projects, activities, or organizations, and can come from various sources such as government, private donors, or institutions.

  • The research project received funding from several scientific organizations.
  • Without additional funding, this community program will have to shut down.
support

Broad term often used to convey various types of assistance or backing, which can include financial help, but also non-monetary aid like resources, advice, or advocacy.

  • The project succeeded thanks to the unwavering support of the local community.
  • He provided support in the form of mentoring and resources to help start the business.
grant

Specific type of funding provided by an organization, such as a government, foundation, or corporation, usually for a particular purpose, and often requires an application process.

  • She applied for a grant to study abroad next semester.
  • The nonprofit received a grant to expand its outreach programs.

Examples of usage

  • The endowment allowed the university to expand its research facilities.
  • The school used the endowment to fund scholarships for students.

Translations

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

Origin of 'endowment'

The word 'endowment' originated from the Old French word 'endouer', meaning 'to provide with a dowry'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century with the sense of providing with an income or property. Over time, the term evolved to encompass various contexts such as finance, legal transfers, and educational support.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,823 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.