Pronunciation: [ɛndˈa͡ʊmənt] (IPA) 
The word "endowment" is spelled with four syllables and is pronounced as /ɪnˈdaʊmənt/. The first syllable "in" is pronounced as "ihn", the second syllable "dow" is pronounced as "dow", the third syllable "ment" is pronounced as "ment", and the unstressed vowel "o" is pronounced as "uh". This word refers to a large sum of money or property that is gifted to an organization or institution to support its activities indefinitely.
Endowment, as a noun, refers to the act of providing a person or organization with a significant gift or bequest, typically in the form of money, property, or assets. This gift or bequest is permanently bestowed on the recipient, often with the intention of supporting and perpetuating a particular cause or purpose.
In a broader sense, endowment can also refer to the quality or ability possessed by someone, such as a unique talent or skill. It can be seen as a natural or acquired capacity that allows individuals to excel in a specific area or field.
The word "endowment" commonly denotes funds or assets given to institutions, such as universities or non-profit organizations, which are then invested to generate income. The generated income supports the institution's operations, programs, or scholarships over an extended period. The purpose behind endowing such institutions is to ensure their long-term viability and sustainability.
Furthermore, endowment also embodies the potential or capacity to influence or affect something significantly. This could include the resources, qualities, or attributes possessed by an entity to bring about lasting change or impact.
To summarize, endowment can refer to the act of providing a significant gift or bequest to an individual or organization, the quality or ability possessed by someone, or the funds and assets that are given to institutions to support their objectives, generate income, and ensure long-term sustainability.
That which is bestowed or settled on; property set apart and secured in perpetuity for the support of a clergyman, college, hospital, &c.; any gift of nature; any faculty or quality of mind.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "endowment" originated from Middle English, deriving from the Old French term "endouement" or "adouement", which meant "payment" or "settlement". It further evolved from the Latin word "indominare", which meant "to settle" or "to give possession". Over time, "endowment" came to refer to the act of providing a gift or grant to establish an institution or provide financial support.
