loving-kindness

noun

lov·​ing-kind·​ness ˌlə-viŋ-ˈkīn(d)-nəs How to pronounce loving-kindness (audio)
: tender and benevolent affection

Examples of loving-kindness in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Faith, hope, and loving-kindness (Miles Coverdale’s translation of agape, or caritas) are asserted, but Saint Paul insists that loving-kindness is greater even than faith or hope. M. D. Aeschliman, National Review, 25 Dec. 2023 For Spinoza, the summit of the moral law is charity, loving-kindness, and this moral law is inscribed on our hearts. James Wood, The New Yorker, 4 Sep. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'loving-kindness.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1535, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of loving-kindness was in 1535

Dictionary Entries Near loving-kindness

Cite this Entry

“Loving-kindness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loving-kindness. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.

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