Etymology
Origin of kindliness
late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; see origin at kindly, -ness
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Sonny finds himself tripping over his ineptitude and tangled up in conflicting sympathies—he’s almost as anxious as his hostages, whom he treats with an apologetic kindliness, almost like a party crasher who’s broken a vase.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 31, 2026
She delivers a vocally expressive performance and gives the digitally recreated face the necessary intelligence, wit and kindliness.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 12, 2025
“Dogs and horses, courtesy, kindliness and community service, count with her,” biographer Giles Brandreth wrote.
From Seattle Times ● Sep. 8, 2022
Weinberg’s memoir doesn’t aspire to the depth of Feeney’s study, but its fealty and kindliness have their own appeal.
From New York Times ● Apr. 2, 2018
The winter mantle had gone, taking with it Sir Grummore, Master Twyti, King Pellinore and the Questing Beast—the latter having revived under the influence of kindliness and bread and milk.
From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
