kindness

noun

kind·​ness ˈkīn(d)-nəs How to pronounce kindness (audio)
Synonyms of kindness
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
see also:
milk of human kindness

Synonyms of kindness

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
My wife is gone now, but a simple act of kindness can last a lifetime. — Chicago Tribune, 30 Oct. 2026 Thank you for being our friend and for sharing your brilliance, joy, and kindness with the world. — Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 29 Oct. 2026 For his family, the celebration was a reminder that a small act of kindness—showing up, saying hello or offering friendship—can mean a lot. — Wakisha Bailey, CBS News, 28 Oct. 2026 Well, murdering the woman who showed you a bit of kindness and understanding definitely seems like the darkest possible moment. — Literary Hub, 28 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for kindness

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of kindness was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing kindness

Rhymes for kindness

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Browse Nearby Words

kindly tenant
kindness
kind of
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Cite this Entry

“Kindness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kindness. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

kindness

noun
kind·​ness ˈkīn(d)-nəs How to pronounce kindness (audio)
1
: a kind deed : favor
returned his kindness
2
: the quality or state of being kind
treat others with kindness
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