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

The play is largely a study in kindness, in both form and subject — even while facing the tough inevitabilities of any life. — Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 10 Oct. 2026

In that interview, Williams discussed growing up in New York, overcoming adversity and the importance of treating others with kindness. — Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 9 Oct. 2026

The enthusiasm and the energy and the kindness of someone like Danny Boyle. — Al Shipley, SPIN, 9 Oct. 2026

Then, Mirabela Lacatusu would allegedly get out of the vehicle to thank the resident for their act of kindness with a hug. — Jennifer McLogan, CBS News, 8 Oct. 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