munificent

Munificent is an adjective describing someone or something that is more generous than is typical, especially in giving large gifts or benefactions. In common usage, the term signals not only generosity but scale: a munificent donation or gesture is typically substantial and often publicly acknowledged.

Etymology: from Latin munificus “giving gifts generously,” formed from munus “gift, duty” and -ficus “making.” The term entered English via Old French munificent and has been in use since the 15th century. The related noun munificence denotes the quality of being munificent.

Usage: Munificent is usually found in formal, ceremonial, or literary contexts. It is commonly applied to donors or institutions that provide exceptionally large sums or resources. The word carries a tone of praise or emphasis on magnitude, and it often collocates with donor, benefactor, grant, or gift. Related forms include munificently (adverb) and munificence (noun). Antonyms include parsimonious or stingy; however, these terms emphasize frugality rather than generosity of a large scale. For example, “The munificent donor funded the new library” and “The foundation announced a munificent grant for medical research.”