goodness

noun

good·​ness ˈgu̇d-nəs 

1

: the quality or state of being good

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

Synonyms

• character
• decency
• honesty
• integrity
• morality
• probity
• rectitude
• righteousness
• rightness
• uprightness
• virtue
• virtuousness

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

The slim-fit, waist-length tank has an aesthetically-pleasing no-seam construction that doesn’t chafe against your skin (thank goodness!), and looks polished enough to throw on and go. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 May 2025

The film is at its strongest when intimately keeping its lens on Aisha’s tangible struggles, while organically contextualizing the modest instances of goodness in her life in contrast with the dire political backdrop of the region. —Tomris Laffly, Variety, 22 May 2025

The smart clickers that almost killed Ellie and Dina (thank goodness Jesse showed up just in the nick of time!). —Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025

Every June, artists descend upon Denver’s Golden Triangle neighborhood and unleash a torrent of creative goodness on the sidewalks. —Sarah Kuta, Denver Post, 14 May 2025

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