kindliness

[ kahynd-lee-nis ]

noun

1. the state or quality of being kindly; benevolence.
2. a kindly deed.

Word History and Origins

Origin of kindliness¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; kindly, -ness

Example Sentences

“Fun and games in pestilence/We could use, use some kindly kindliness,” he sings in “Tag,” adding, “Still shake your fist/A kind of gritted bliss.”

From New York Times

Increasing years had added more grease to his bulk, more flesh to his paunch; they had not sweetened his nature or endowed him with more kindliness.

From Literature

A Massachusetts judge ruled that Adelson, while “perhaps lacking paternal kindliness,” had not defrauded or misled his sons.

From Los Angeles Times

“I want nothing from you; I ask nothing of you,” Fred persists, all kindliness.

From New York Times

When Tup persuades Doris to attend a local Fourth of July party, he thinks, “There are lessons in these gatherings about kindliness and generosity.”

From Washington Post