kindness

[kahynd-nis]

noun

1. the state or quality of being kind.

   kindness to animals.

   Synonyms: tenderness, compassion, sympathy, charity, generosity, humanity, benevolence, benignity
   Antonyms: malevolence

2. a kind act; favor.

   his many kindnesses to me.

3. kind behavior.

   I will never forget your kindness.

   Synonyms: tenderness, compassion, sympathy, charity, generosity, humanity, benevolence, benignity
   Antonyms: cruelty

4. friendly feeling; liking.

kindness

/ ˈkaɪndnɪs /

noun

1. the practice or quality of being kind

2. a kind, considerate, or helpful act

Other Word Forms

• self-kindness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of kindness¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, kindness is from the Middle English word kindenes. See kind ¹, -ness

Idioms and Phrases

see kill with kindness; milk of human kindness.

Example Sentences

Our work suggests that to encourage people to take that step, it’s helpful to first give them a chance to see others’ empathy and care, just by presenting truthful data about human kindness.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Kennedy said Sanders will be remembered for his “dedication, his kindness and the positive impact he had on everyone.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

With vocal writing of sublime, deceptive simplicity, “poor hymnal” gifts an unforgettable hour of kindness while becoming a moving manual for unpossessing.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In such situations, kindness is all that is truly required, but “A present couldn’t hurt,” as Agatha Swanburne had often advised.

Read more on Literature

But Penelope could hardly be cross with the children, after all their kindness and generosity.

Read more on Literature

Related Words

• affection 
• altruism 
• benevolence 
• cordiality 
• courtesy 
• decency 
• forbearance 
• gentleness 
• good will www.thesaurus.com
• goodness 
• grace 
• graciousness 
• hospitality 
• humanity 
• patience 
• solicitude 
• sweetness www.thesaurus.com
• sympathy 
• tenderness www.thesaurus.com
• tolerance