goodness

noun

good·​ness ˈgu̇d-nəs How to pronounce goodness (audio)
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

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 To be able to step out and see the goodness of humanity and people is super inspiring to me. Detroit Free Press, 23 Apr. 2024 Cubes of French bread soak up all the savory goodness of broth, white wine, garlic, and onions, then bake in an eggy Swiss cheese mixture. Zoe Denenberg, Southern Living, 16 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for goodness 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'goodness.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of goodness was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near goodness

Cite this Entry

“Goodness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/goodness. Accessed 4 May. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on goodness

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