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

Thank goodness Caribbean Hut does it the proper way — which is not on pizza. —Andre James, Charlotte Observer, 13 Apr. 2026

And just as Nicky is the only person who can see Morgan’s goodness inside her many flaws, only Morgan recognizes Nicky’s unhappiness buried within his bizarre decision to be a priest. —Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 10 Apr. 2026

Delicate rolls of cabbage, stuffed with a compendium of meats, rice, veggies, and grandma-level goodness, are absolutely certain to satisfy. —Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 9 Apr. 2026

These light and crispy squares have a delightful crunch, plus they’re coated with cinnamon-sugar dust that delivers instant cinnamon goodness on the palate. —Jolene Thym, Mercury News, 8 Apr. 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