riddance

American  

[rid-ns] / ˈrɪd ns /

noun

1. the act or fact of clearing away or out, as anything undesirable.

   Synonyms:

   dislodgment, clearance, ouster

2. relief or deliverance from something.

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idioms

1. good riddance, a welcome relief or deliverance from something.

   He's gone, and good riddance!

riddance British  

/ ˈrɪdəns /

noun

1. the act of getting rid of something undesirable or unpleasant; deliverance or removal (esp in the phrase good riddance )

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riddance More Idioms  

1. see good riddance.

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Etymology

Origin of riddance

First recorded in 1525–35; rid ¹ + -ance

Explanation

Riddance is the act of getting rid of something. People say "Good riddance!" when they're happy someone or something is gone. When you're rid of something, it's gone. You're rid of a cold when it's over. Similarly, riddance is the action of getting rid of something. The police are dedicated to the riddance of crime. Librarians want riddance of noise so people can read. If you have bugs where you live, you're going to be interested in their riddance: they will have to be exterminated. Good riddance!

Example Sentences

Thus, to the “tyranny”—to the “dead hand”—of gold, he says good riddance.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 12, 2025

"Good riddance," he wrote in a two-word statement accompanying the Fed's decision to bin the 2023 guidelines -- a marked contrast to the lengthier statements of his colleagues.

From Barron's • Oct. 16, 2025

If this is it for The Weeknd as we know him, good riddance.

From Salon • May 19, 2025

Asked about Habib's departure from the party, Farage told the BBC: "Good riddance".

From BBC • Jan. 10, 2025

Good riddance to bad rubbish, she said, chuckling.

From "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood