kindness
KYND-nuhs
Kindness (noun) means the quality of being kind; a caring, generous, and considerate nature. Example: “I will never forget the kindness the nurses showed my mother during her stay.”
noun
1
The quality of being kind; a caring, generous, and considerate nature.
"I will never forget the kindness the nurses showed my mother during her stay."
"Teachers who treat pupils with kindness often get the best results from them."
"Her kindness toward strangers made a lasting impression on everyone she met."
2
A specific act of caring or generous behaviour.
"Leaving a note of thanks for the postman was a thoughtful kindness."
"After the storm, the neighbours' many kindnesses helped us feel less alone."
"Helping the old man carry his shopping was a small kindness that made his day."
How to use kindness
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBeing kind, or a specific caring act — like helping someone or doing something thoughtful for them.
Common pairings
act of kindness
out of kindness
show kindness
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Word forms
- Plural
- kindnesses
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I will never forget the _____ the nurses showed my mother during her stay.
Etymology
From Middle English kyndenesse, formed from "kind" plus the noun-forming suffix "-ness."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for kindness
See all rhymes for kindness →Frequently asked questions
What does “kindness” mean?
The word “kindness” means the quality of being kind; a caring, generous, and considerate nature. In plain terms, being kind, or a specific caring act — like helping someone or doing something thoughtful for them.
How do you pronounce “kindness”?
“Kindness” is pronounced KYND-nuhs (/ˈkaɪnd.nəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “kindness” in a sentence?
Here is “kindness” used in a sentence: “Her kindness toward strangers made a lasting impression on everyone she met.”
What part of speech is “kindness”?
“Kindness” is a noun.
Where does the word “kindness” come from?
The word “kindness” comes from Middle English. From Middle English kyndenesse, formed from "kind" plus the noun-forming suffix "-ness.".
Is “kindness” a common word?
“Kindness” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “kindness” have?
“Kindness” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the quality of being kind; a caring, generous, and considerate nature.
What is the difference between kindness and compassion?
Kindness is the general quality of being caring, generous, and considerate towards others. Compassion is more specific: it is the feeling of concern for someone who is suffering, combined with the wish to help. You can show kindness in everyday situations where nobody is suffering, whereas compassion is a response to someone's distress.
Can kindness be used in the plural, as "kindnesses"?
Yes. When kindness refers to a specific act of caring or generous behaviour, it is countable, so you can speak of "many small kindnesses" or "the kindnesses she showed us." When it names the general quality of being kind, it stays singular and uncountable.
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