loving-kindness

American  

[luhv-ing-kahynd-nis] / ˈlʌv ɪŋˈkaɪnd nɪs /

noun

1. tender kindness motivated by or expressing affection.

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Etymology

Origin of loving-kindness

First recorded in 1525–35

Example Sentences

He does a daily 10-minute meditation, but it also has loving-kindness meditations, cognitive behavioral therapy.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 28, 2025

She has since worked at her mother’s literary agency and become a “certified mindfulness and loving-kindness meditation teacher.”

From New York Times • Feb. 13, 2023

In loving-kindness meditation, you wish yourself peace, ease, happiness and freedom from pain, then direct those wishes to a benefactor, then a friend, a stranger, someone you find difficult, then all people everywhere.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 11, 2022

He might offer a list of his week’s resolutions, including, “Offer loving-kindness to my inner critic.”

From Washington Times • Apr. 29, 2020

Perhaps I might have been able to reconcile myself even to this if I had been able to believe that there was any loving-kindness to be found in the haven I represented.

From "The Fire Next Time" by James Baldwin