assistance

 
Pronunciation: /əˈsɪst(ə)ns/

noun

[mass noun]
  • the action of helping someone by sharing work: the work was completed with the assistance of carpenters
  • the provision of money, resources, or information to help someone: schemes offering financial assistance to employers she will be glad to give advice and assistance

Phrases

be of assistance

be of practical use or help: the guide will be of assistance to development groups

come to someone's assistance

act to help someone: the speaker was hoping for someone to come to his assistance

Origin:

late Middle English: from Old French, or from medieval Latin assistentia, from Latin assistere (see assist)