kindness

[ kahynd-nis ]

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

/ ˈkaɪndnɪs /

noun

1. the practice or quality of being kind
2. a kind, considerate, or helpful act

Other Words From

• self-kindness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of kindness¹

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

Idioms and Phrases

see kill with kindness ; milk of human kindness .

Example Sentences

Amazon has also opted for the theme of kindness, telling the story of a theatre caretaker whose hidden singing talent is discovered by his colleagues.

From BBC

"The service will shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities," it said.

From BBC

The Princess of Wales's annual Christmas carol service is to go ahead this year and will celebrate people from "all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy" to those in need of support.

From BBC

“Off-screen, Tony was cherished as a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of kindness and wisdom,” Goldberg’s company said.

From Los Angeles Times

In an instant, his beach route comment did me a huge kindness and made me feel like an incurious boor.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• affection
• altruism
• benevolence
• cordiality
• courtesy
• decency
• forbearance
• gentleness
• good will
• goodness
• grace
• graciousness
• hospitality
• humanity
• patience
• solicitude
• sweetness
• sympathy
• tenderness
• tolerance