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

There’s a lot to be said for making a false show of goodness. —Literary Hub, 3 Apr. 2026

Floyd’s innate goodness radiates through Harbour’s performance. —Clayton Davis, Variety, 2 Apr. 2026

The biblical boogeymen of medieval celebrations (temptation and sin) were replaced by more lighthearted characters like General Isegrimm, who represented the absence not of goodness so much as happiness. —Tim Brinkhof, JSTOR Daily, 1 Apr. 2026

Ooey, gooey marshmallowy goodness is a beloved treat for kiddos, but adults love it just as much. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 30 Mar. 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