euergetism

English

Alternative forms

• evergetism

Etymology

From Ancient Greek εὐεργετέω (euergetéō, “to do good”) +‎ -ism.

Noun

euergetism (usually uncountable, plural euergetisms)

1. (historical) the practice of élite in Greek and Roman cities of distributing a part of their wealth to the community; public benefaction
   • 1998, The Cambridge Ancient History, Vol. 13: The Late Empire, p. 330

     Euergetism, as traditionally practised, might take the form of the construction of public buildings, the provision of public pleasures, the entertainment of the populace in circus or arena, or the provision of food in times of dearth...

Related terms

• euergetist

Translations

the practice of élite in Greek and Roman cities to distribute a part of their wealth to the community

• Dutch: evergetisme
• French: évergétisme (fr) m
• German: Euergetismus
• Italian: evergetismo
• Portuguese: evergetismo
• Russian: эвергетизм m (evergetizm)

See also

• do-gooder
• liturgy
• philanthropy