Benevolent sort (4)
I believe the answer is:
kind
This clue is a double definition.
'benevolent' is the first definition.
(associated in meaning)
'sort' is the second definition.
(synonyms)
(Other definitions for kind that I've seen before include "Loving; class" , "Sort of compassionate" , "Generous - type" , "Taking a plunge" , "Sympathetic" .)