n. pl. ben·e·fi·ci·ar·ies 1. One that receives a benefit: I am the beneficiary of your generosity. 2. The recipient of funds, property, or other benefits, as from an insurance policy or trust. 3. Ecclesiastical The holder of a benefice. [Medieval Latin beneficiārius, holder of a feudal benefice, from Latin, soldier granted privileges, from beneficium, benefit; see BENEFICE.] ben′e·fici·ar′y adj. |
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