kindness

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English

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Alternative forms

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Etymology

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From Middle English kindenesse, equivalent to kind +‎ -ness.

Pronunciation

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  • IPA(key): /ˈkaɪndnɪs/, /ˈkaɪndnəs/
  • Audio (US):(file)
  • Rhymes: -aɪndnəs

Noun

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kindness (countable and uncountable, plural kindnesses)

  1. The state of being kind.
    Jamie's kindness is legendary, so much that people have taken advantage of her.
  2. An instance of kind or charitable behaviour.
    How can I thank you for your many kindnesses?
    Do me a kindness and leave.
    i'm going to turn a blind eye to this misdemeanour, out of the kindness of my heart.
    • 1911, James George Frazer, The Golden Bough, volume 8, page 232:
      They are grateful for kindnesses that they may have received.

Derived terms

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Translations

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