Step 1: Meaning of "Benevolent"
The word benevolent means well-meaning, kind, charitable, or showing goodwill towards others. It implies helpfulness and compassion.
Step 2: Check each option
- (a) Kind: directly matches the meaning of benevolent. ✔
- (b) Cruel: opposite meaning, not correct. ✘
- (c) Selfish: opposite of being generous, not correct. ✘
- (d) Hostile: unfriendly, again the opposite, not correct. ✘
Step 3: Conclusion
Thus, the synonym of benevolent is Kind.
\[
\boxed{\text{Answer = (a) Kind}}
\]