Generous type has been exceptionally significant element (10)
I believe the answer is:
benefactor
'generous type' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?
'been exceptionally significant element' is the wordplay.
'exceptionally' indicates anagramming the letters.
'significant element' becomes 'factor' (synonyms. I am not sure about the 'significant' bit.).
'been' anagrammed gives 'bene'.
'bene'+'factor'='BENEFACTOR'
'has' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for benefactor that I've seen before include "Patron, sponsor" , "Patronising sort" , "One provides bread" , "Person giving to a good cause" , "charity supporter?" .)