Euergetes

/ˌjuːərˈdʒiːtiːz/ noun

Definition

In ancient Greek, a title or epithet meaning 'benefactor' or 'public benefactor,' often given to rulers or wealthy individuals who funded public works.

Etymology

From Greek eu- (good, well) and ergetes (worker or doer), literally 'good doer.' It became a formal title in Hellenistic kingdoms, most famously applied to Ptolemy III Euergetes of Egypt.

Kelly Says

Ancient Greeks literally had an official title for rich people who donated to the community—Ptolemy III Euergetes was so famous for his generosity that the title stuck to him in history books forever, making him a celebrity philanthropist.

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