goodness

noun

good·​ness ˈgu̇d-nəs 

1

: the quality or state of being good

There's goodness in everyone.

They agreed to help out of the goodness of their hearts. [=because they are good and kind people]

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

the goodness of the vegetables

Synonyms of goodness

• 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

This week's exciting launches include an all-new collaborative platform for ASOS and emerging designers, pre-fall goodness at Express, stunning new arrivals at Patricia Nash, a fab jewelry collection curated by Martha Stewart, and much more. — Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 5 Aug. 2026

Where season three frustrated with its aimless pacing, its unruly plotting, its self-congratulatory strain of goodness, new showrunner Jack Burditt (30 Rock, Modern Family) dials back the worst of the show’s excesses. — Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 5 Aug. 2026

Topped with macadamia nuts and basil and swimming in stracciatella goodness, this dish is a fun, Florida take on the traditional Italian starter. — Connie Ogle july 31, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026

That post, by the way, got 301,000 views — or about one-third as many as the one declaring God's goodness. — Armando Salguero Outkick, FOXNews.com, 31 July 2026

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