English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun

riddance

RIHDNS

Riddance (noun) means the act of getting rid of something unwanted, or the relief that comes from it. Example: “When the noisy neighbours finally moved out, it was good riddance.”

noun
1
The act of getting rid of something unwanted, or the relief that comes from it.
"When the noisy neighbours finally moved out, it was good riddance."

How to use riddance

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe relief of finally being free of something unwanted — almost always used in the phrase "good riddance."

Common pairings
good riddance

Word forms

riddances plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “riddance” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

When the noisy neighbours finally moved out, it was good _____.

Etymology

From an alteration of Middle English words for "clearing away," ultimately built from the verb rid plus the suffix -ance.

Origin: Middle English

Related words

Rhymes for riddance

See all rhymes for riddance →

Frequently asked questions

What does “riddance” mean?

The word “riddance” means the act of getting rid of something unwanted, or the relief that comes from it. In plain terms, the relief of finally being free of something unwanted — almost always used in the phrase "good riddance.".

How do you pronounce “riddance”?

“Riddance” is pronounced RIHDNS (/ˈɹɪdn̩(t)s/ in IPA).

How do you use “riddance” in a sentence?

Here is “riddance” used in a sentence: “When the noisy neighbours finally moved out, it was good riddance.”

What part of speech is “riddance”?

“Riddance” is a noun.

Where does the word “riddance” come from?

The word “riddance” comes from Middle English. From an alteration of Middle English words for "clearing away," ultimately built from the verb rid plus the suffix -ance.

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial