KIND Synonyms: 197 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'kind' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of kind are character , description , nature , sort , and type . While all these words mean "a number of individuals thought of as a group because of a common quality or qualities," kind may suggest natural grouping. // a zoo seemingly having animals of every kind

Q: Where would 'character' be a reasonable alternative to 'kind'?

The synonyms character and kind are sometimes interchangeable, but character implies a group marked by distinctive likenesses peculiar to the type. // research on the subject so far has been of an elementary character

Q: When could 'description' be used to replace 'kind'?

While the synonyms description and kind are close in meaning, description implies a group marked by agreement in all details belonging to a type as described or defined. // not all acts of that description are actually illegal

Q: When would 'nature' be a good substitute for 'kind'?

While in some cases nearly identical to kind , nature may imply inherent, essential resemblance rather than obvious or superficial likenesses. // two problems of a similar nature

Q: When can 'sort' be used instead of 'kind'?

The words sort and kind can be used in similar contexts, but sort often suggests some disparagement. // the sort of newspaper dealing in sensational stories

Q: When is it sensible to use 'type' instead of 'kind'?

Although the words type and kind have much in common, type may suggest strong and clearly marked similarity throughout the items included so that each is typical of the group. // one of three basic body types

kind 1 of 2

noun

ˈkīnd

Definition of kind next

as in type

a number of persons or things that are grouped together because they have something in common I like that kind of candy

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

as in category

one of the units into which a whole is divided on the basis of a common characteristic we looked at just about every kind of flooring before deciding which to use in the kitchen

Synonyms & Similar Words

kind

2 of 2

adjective

as in thoughtful

given to or made with heedful anticipation of the needs and happiness of others providing the grieving widow with a homemade meal was a kind deed

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in compassionate

having or marked by sympathy and consideration for others a kind person who regularly volunteers at the homeless shelter

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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For

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kind people

generous people

friendly people

thoughtful people

warmhearted people

helpful people

kind words

pleasant words

sweet words

gentle words

nice words

warmhearted words

kind intentions

nice intentions

wholesome intentions

great intentions

decent intentions

pure intentions

a kind way

a generous way

a thoughtful way

a tender way

a gentle way

a sweet way

kind thoughts

good thoughts

positive thoughts

compassionate thoughts

gentle thoughts

pleasant thoughts

Synonym Chooser

How is the word kind distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of kind are character, description, nature, sort, and type. While all these words mean "a number of individuals thought of as a group because of a common quality or qualities," kind may suggest natural grouping.

a zoo seemingly having animals of every kind

Where would character be a reasonable alternative to kind?

The synonyms character and kind are sometimes interchangeable, but character implies a group marked by distinctive likenesses peculiar to the type.

research on the subject so far has been of an elementary character

When could description be used to replace kind?

While the synonyms description and kind are close in meaning, description implies a group marked by agreement in all details belonging to a type as described or defined.

not all acts of that description are actually illegal

When would nature be a good substitute for kind?

While in some cases nearly identical to kind, nature may imply inherent, essential resemblance rather than obvious or superficial likenesses.

two problems of a similar nature

When can sort be used instead of kind?

The words sort and kind can be used in similar contexts, but sort often suggests some disparagement.

the sort of newspaper dealing in sensational stories

When is it sensible to use type instead of kind?

Although the words type and kind have much in common, type may suggest strong and clearly marked similarity throughout the items included so that each is typical of the group.

one of three basic body types

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of kind

Noun

People with disabilities of all kinds must first navigate the job application process, which requires its own accommodations and can often leave folks worn out — or even screened out entirely. —

Rachel Curry, CNBC, 30 Jan. 2025 Mental toughness is about leaning into productive discomfort — the kind that builds endurance and grit. —

King Holder, Rolling Stone, 30 Jan. 2025

Adjective

She’s also known for doubling down on her takes when pressed, and her kind words for Swift are no exception. —

Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 30 Jan. 2025 Brie portrays her as a sensitive, kind soul with a fast-approaching limit. —

Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 29 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for kind

Recent Examples of Synonyms for kind

Adjective

Keep scrolling for more thoughtful Valentine’s Day gifts under $45 at Walmart.

— Ali Faccenda, People.com, 30 Jan. 2025
The zippered vents and pockets go above standard issue thanks to their thoughtful locations: the avalanche beacon pocket is on the chest, where it can be reached if necessary, and the swing hatch panel removes the hassle of bathroom breaks.

— Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 30 Jan. 2025