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

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

Guidara’s idea that small, intentional acts of kindness and generosity can transform normal interactions into more meaningful experiences stood out to me. — Serenity Gibbons, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

The team on this project was uniquely dedicated to doing things with as much kindness and thoughtful support of Sophia as possible. — Los Angeles Times, 22 July 2026

His Habitat affiliate became something of a clearinghouse for the kindness of the whole country. — Harry Bruinius, Christian Science Monitor, 21 July 2026

Kara also posted a note about their mom on Instagram Sunday, noting her continued kindness and strength amid her cancer battle. — Leigh Blickley, Entertainment Weekly, 20 July 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