goodness

noun

good·​ness ˈgu̇d-nəs 

1

: the quality or state of being good

2

—used interjectionally or in phrases especially to express mild surprise or shock

oh, my goodness!

goodness knows

3

: the nutritious, flavorful, or beneficial part of something

Synonyms

• character
• decency
• honesty
• integrity
• morality
• probity
• rectitude
• righteousness
• rightness
• uprightness
• virtue
• virtuousness

Examples of goodness in a Sentence

Even if you don't agree, at least have the goodness to be polite!

a person of such unaffected goodness that his friends were inspired to lead better lives

Recent Examples on the Web

The ability to enjoy the earth and all its goodness, savoring its beauty and gifts. —Samantha Laine Perfas, The Christian Science Monitor, 10 Sep. 2024

There's almost too much goodness coming to the streamer in September, so bookmark your must-watches from the full list below. —Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 4 Sep. 2024

Two experts about stories of human goodness are Upworthy’s Gabriel Reilich and Lucia Knell. —Alain Hunkins, Forbes, 3 Sep. 2024

Grandma combines all of that cheesy, starchy goodness into one casserole dish instead. —Phoebe Evans, Southern Living, 1 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing goodness

• for goodness' sake
• goodness knows
• goodness of fit
• honest-to-goodness
• My goodness
• out of the goodness of one's heart
• thank God/goodness/heaven(s)/the Lord