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

• benevolence
• boon
• courtesy
• favor
• grace
• indulgence
• mercy
• service
• turn

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 braided and beaded trinkets are woven with messages of kindness, song lyrics or inside jokes among her devotees, who cluster in venue aisles and interminable merchandise lines at concerts to trade as part of their own secret society. —Melissa Ruggieri, USA TODAY, 10 Dec. 2024

One act of kindness and then to have that dream and that goal to be able to help others and do one step at a time to get there. —Gabriel Kinder and Allie Torgan, CNN, 8 Dec. 2024

In the holiday spirit of kindness, attach a small card listing the ingredients so the recipient or others can be aware of any potential allergens. —Bethany Thayer, Detroit Free Press, 7 Dec. 2024

Focus on core qualities like kindness, emotional availability, and shared values rather than superficial traits or hobbies. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing kindness

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

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