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

Dave Foley, Kiefer Sutherland, Marlee Matlin, Jerry O’Connell, Paul Feig, Ben Stiller, Greg Grunberg and more shared their memories and continued to praise Rubin’s kindness in the business. —Pat Saperstein, Variety, 10 May 2024

But even more than that, the acts of service have demonstrated kindness and love when Wood needed it most. —Virginia Chamlee, Peoplemag, 8 May 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