kindness

noun

kind·​ness ˈkīn(d)-nəs 

1

: the quality or state of being kind

treating people with kindness and respect

2

: a kind deed : favor

They did me a great kindness.

3

archaic : affection

Synonyms of kindness

• tenderness
• generosity
• humaneness
• attentiveness
• warmth
• benevolence
• beneficence
• kindliness
• kindheartedness
• tenderheartedness

Examples of kindness in a Sentence

We thanked her for her many kindnesses.

You would be doing me a great kindness if you agreed to help.

Recent Examples on the Web

For months afterward, kindness arrived in unexpected forms — neighbors bringing food, strangers offering furniture, friends calling daily. —Jonathan Taplin, Rolling Stone, 7 Jan. 2026

Does their lack of kindness grant you permission to respond with equal insensitivity or even cruelty? —Michael Isaacson, Sun Sentinel, 6 Jan. 2026

While a barren Christmas was expected, the kindness of strangers began, according to a front-page News-Sun story last week by Tess Kenny. —Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 5 Jan. 2026

Thanks to Goodall and the kindness of the Jane Goodall Institute, Robinson the bear's care will be covered for the rest of the animal's life. —Kelli Bender, PEOPLE, 5 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing kindness

• kill (someone) with kindness
• loving-kindness
• milk of human kindness
• out of the kindness of one's heart
• the milk of human kindness

Rhymes for kindness

• blindness
• unkindness

Kids Definition

kindness

noun

kind·​ness ˈkīn(d)-nəs 

1

: a kind deed : favor

returned his kindness

2

: the quality or state of being kind

treat others with kindness