goodness

noun

good·​ness ˈgu̇d-nəs 

1

: the quality or state of being good

2

—used interjectionally or in phrases especially to express mild surprise or shock

oh, my goodness!

goodness knows

3

: the nutritious, flavorful, or beneficial part of something

Synonyms

• integrity
• morality
• virtue
• honesty

Examples of goodness in a Sentence

Even if you don't agree, at least have the goodness to be polite!

a person of such unaffected goodness that his friends were inspired to lead better lives

Recent Examples on the Web

The birds are naturally drawn to flowers, but are also known for taking pit stops at bright feeders filled with sugary goodness for them. —Joyce Orlando, Nashville Tennessean, 4 Sep. 2025

Thank goodness people weren’t hurt, obviously, but lesson learned. —Pete Sweeney, Kansas City Star, 1 Sep. 2025

My goodness, talk about emotional blackmail! —Arkansas Online, 31 Aug. 2025

Catalyst Game Labs Like a massive dropship, a few boxes full of Battletech goodness have landed at my front door. —Rob Wieland, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing goodness

• for goodness' sake
• goodness knows
• goodness of fit
• honest-to-goodness
• My goodness
• out of the goodness of one's heart
• thank God/goodness/heaven(s)/the Lord