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

Even more goodness to check out! —Brian Truitt, USA Today, 12 June 2026

There’s more than one way to eat a burger, and thank goodness for that. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 9 June 2026

These tiny, small little things do add up to goodness that makes a difference. —Emily Elias, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 June 2026

Never stopped believing in the beacon-like goodness of California. —Marisa Lagos, NPR, 3 June 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