kindness

noun

kind·​ness ˈkīn(d)-nəs How to pronounce kindness (audio)
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

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 The ballots at the bottom of this story will have three categories for high school students: Spirit Award – Nominees for this award are students with a spirit of kindness, positive leadership, encouragement, compassion, volunteerism, perseverance and a will to serve others. Melanie Laughman, The Enquirer, 1 Apr. 2024 Nobody in the world celebrates compassion, empathy, kindness, benevolence. Alana Semuels, TIME, 31 Mar. 2024 As is the love, support, and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 31 Mar. 2024 Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too, as is the love, support, and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. Vogue, 22 Mar. 2024 Happily, the couple doesn’t have to rely solely on the kindness of the people around them. Jireh Deng, Los Angeles Times, 21 Mar. 2024 Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance, too, as has the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. Etan Vlessing, The Hollywood Reporter, 22 Mar. 2024 Besides his extraordinary talent that radiated for over 60 years, Tony’s legacy is one of character, integrity, kindness, and courage. Thania Garcia, Variety, 19 Mar. 2024 The cast honored her memory by sharing some of their favorite memories of Somers, in many cases, outlining her generosity and kindness. Kelly Wynne, Peoplemag, 18 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word '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

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of kindness was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near kindness

Cite this Entry

“Kindness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kindness. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

kindness

noun
kind·​ness ˈkīn(d)-nəs How to pronounce kindness (audio)
1
: a kind deed : favor
returned his kindness
2
: the quality or state of being kind
treat others with kindness

More from Merriam-Webster on kindness

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