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

No corners have been cut and how Austrian Audio managed to produce these headphones for the money, goodness only knows. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Shows that remind you of the goodness of humanity like ... 'The Great British Baking Show' Stream on: Netflix, Roku TV. —Kelly Lawler, USA TODAY, 4 Nov. 2024

Thank goodness Kaya was the arresting officer, because Elsbeth can now get in on the case. —Sophie Brookover, Vulture, 31 Oct. 2024

Thank goodness for my grandmother, who was with me every step of the way and took me to all my appointments. —Alice Oglethorpe, SELF, 28 Oct. 2024

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