kindness

noun

kind·​ness ˈkīn(d)-nəs 

1

: the quality or state of being kind

treating people with kindness and respect

2

: a kind deed : favor

They did me a great kindness.

3

archaic : affection

see also:

milk of human kindness

Synonyms of kindness

• tenderness
• generosity
• humaneness
• attentiveness
• warmth
• benevolence
• beneficence
• kindliness
• kindheartedness
• tenderheartedness

Examples of kindness in a Sentence

We thanked her for her many kindnesses.

You would be doing me a great kindness if you agreed to help.

Recent Examples on the Web

Her flop of a debate performance left her sounding like someone with no vision or kindness — career suicide for someone who has made her reputation on both traits. — Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 20 Aug. 2026

Ashley Curtwright, mom of 9-year-old Nora and her late brother Brady, told ABC News the act of kindness touched her and her family deeply. — Yi-Jin Yu, ABC News, 19 Aug. 2026

For Cotto and DeCarli, the main mission behind Marianna’s Pantry is to offer a welcoming place for the community and serving up delicious food with a side of kindness. — Pamela Brown, Hartford Courant, 16 Aug. 2026

The bride notes she was also taken in by the team’s kindness and talent. — Shelby Wax, Vogue, 14 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing kindness

• kill (someone) with kindness
• loving-kindness
• milk of human kindness
• out of the kindness of one's heart
• the milk of human kindness

Rhymes for kindness

• blindness
• unkindness

Kids Definition

kindness

noun

kind·​ness ˈkīn(d)-nəs 

1

: a kind deed : favor

returned his kindness

2

: the quality or state of being kind

treat others with kindness