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

Her basic goodness, her humility, her generosity of spirit, were inspirational. — Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 25 Aug. 2026

Most of that high-proof goodness gets processed through Boise. — Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 24 Aug. 2026

Thank goodness Angie Nixon is not an aggressively obnoxious member of the DSA (Democratic Socialists of America). — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 24 Aug. 2026

This is a vote that asks members of both parties to stand together and vote for a bill that is complicated but that offers so much goodness to a community that has long awaited it. — Vanessa Chism, Baltimore Sun, 23 Aug. 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