Donor

Definition

Donor refers to a person or entity that gives something, such as money, goods, services, or biological material, to a cause, organization, or another individual, typically without expecting anything in return.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdoʊnər/
• Respelling: DOH-nər

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdəʊnə/
• Respelling: DOH-nuh

The pronunciation of "donor" differs slightly between American and British English, particularly in the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "donor" comes from the Latin word "donare," meaning "to give." It entered Middle English via Old French as "doneur," reflecting its meaning as a person who gives. The term has evolved over time to apply to those who give money, goods, or biological material like blood, organs, or tissues.

Derivatives

• Donation (noun)
• Donate (verb)
• Donative (adjective)
• Donorship (noun)
• Donatory (noun, legal)

Synonyms

• Contributor
• Giver
• Benefactor

Antonyms

• Recipient
• Acceptor
• Beneficiary

Usage

The word "donor" is widely used in contexts involving charity, medicine, and legal transfers. For example, in the medical field, a donor is someone who provides biological material, such as blood or organs, for transplantation. In charity, a donor refers to someone who gives money or goods to support a cause. For example: "The foundation received a large sum from an anonymous donor."

Related Terms

• Philanthropist: A person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially through generous donations of money.
• Grantor: A person or entity that makes a grant, often in a legal or financial context.
• Altruist: A person who shows selfless concern for the well-being of others, often associated with giving.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person who gives money, goods, or services: Refers to someone who donates resources to an organization or cause, typically for charitable purposes.
  • Example: "The hospital thanked its donors for their generous support."
• A person who provides biological material for medical use: Refers to someone who gives blood, organs, or tissues for medical purposes, such as transplants.
  • Example: "The patient received a kidney from an organ donor."