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.
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
Trilling had published a scolding review of “Portnoy’s Complaint,” characterizing the then 36-year-old Roth as “grimly deterministic,” and the novel itself as lacking “virtues of courage, kindliness, responsibility.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 25, 2018
Mr. McCartney was the exception, radiating aw-shucks kindliness and preaching heartfelt peace and love in many of his songs.
From New York Times ● Oct. 10, 2016
His manner as he bestowed a tip suggested generous good-nature, a wish to give pleasure, based on physical well-being and sincere kindliness of heart.
From "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
