noun

boon

BOON/buːn/

Something helpful or advantageous

The sturdy tote is a boon when the rain-soaked grocery bag tears.

During a sudden downpour, a woman carrying a rain-soaked paper grocery bag receives a sturdy reusable tote just as the paper bottom tears.
Etymology

A petition or prayer asks for a favor. Boon shifted from the favor requested to the thing received, and finally to a benefit enjoyed.

In context

Modern History TV13:59
That's a boon. That saves me a lot of time.
A Quiet Conversation About Medieval Life

More examples

  • The new bus route was a boon.
  • Several unexpected boons eased the task.
  • The grant proved a boon to the library.

Forms

boon · boons

Similar words

benefit
Any advantage, not necessarily something newly received.
blessing
Often conveys gratitude or a religious interpretation.