kindness

noun

kind·​ness ˈkīn(d)-nəs 

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

Synonyms of kindness

• tenderness
• generosity
• humaneness
• attentiveness
• warmth
• benevolence
• beneficence
• kindliness
• kindheartedness
• tenderheartedness

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

As the intuitive Scorpio Moon harmonizes with expansive Jupiter this morning, kindness and perspective flow naturally, helping conversations feel more open and supportive. —Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 2 May 2026

Stay well and remember to spread the gift of kindness. —Helen Dennis, Daily News, 2 May 2026

He will not just be missed by those of us who were honored and fortunate to call him friend but by thousands of Floridians who benefitted from his kindness, generosity and humanity. —Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 Apr. 2026

Holocaust survivors and local Palm Beach County students joined together for the Legacy of Impact event hosted by inSIGHT Through Education, a program that encourages kindness by using lessons learned from the Holocaust and genocides worldwide. —Jessica Tzikas, Sun Sentinel, 29 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing kindness

• kill (someone) with kindness
• loving-kindness
• milk of human kindness
• out of the kindness of one's heart
• the milk of human kindness

Rhymes for kindness

• blindness
• unkindness

Kids Definition

kindness

noun

kind·​ness ˈkīn(d)-nəs 

1

: a kind deed : favor

returned his kindness

2

: the quality or state of being kind

treat others with kindness