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 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 Recognizing volunteer acts of kindness is another way for companies to deepen social impact. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 4 Mar. 2024 Many students knew Hollis’s kindness in slipping an extra burger or sandwich in the bag of food at the register, on the house and without mentioning it. Scott Howard-Cooper., Los Angeles Times, 3 Mar. 2024 Cortes likes to think of this skill as an act of kindness toward yourself and the other person. Kailyn Brown, Los Angeles Times, 7 Mar. 2024 This is called sadaqah, or voluntary charity, and can be in many forms, such as feeding someone a meal, donating to charity, performing a good deed, or doing an act of kindness. The Enquirer, 7 Mar. 2024 Today, advanced meditators usually access them by concentrating on something: a flame, their breath, the sense of loving kindness. Ross Andersen, The Atlantic, 4 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 28 Mar. 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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