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Synonyms

kindness

American  
[kahynd-nis] / ˈkaɪnd nɪs /

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 British  
/ ˈkaɪndnɪs /

noun

  1. the practice or quality of being kind

  2. a kind, considerate, or helpful act

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
kindness Idioms  

  1. see kill with kindness; milk of human kindness.

Other Word Forms

  • self-kindness noun

Etymology

Origin of kindness

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

“Over these last few years, every day that’s gone by, I felt your prayers and support, your kindness and love,” Dion said.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

"Through his work, discipline and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives."

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

While noting women "were treated with kindness and compassion", a "requires improvement" rating was given, the same as last year.

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2026

They deserve the same protection as someone who inspires you with kindness.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 3, 2026

“Well, I guess if you were the snake you might call it an act of kindness, but I don’t understand...”

From "The Best School Year Ever" by Barbara Robinson

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.