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

Thank goodness for the music, a constant in the chaos. —Rolling Stone, 28 Dec. 2024

Envision millions upon millions of people using LLMs that were intended for goodness that are instead being utilized for evildoing in a somewhat unfettered fashion. —Lance Eliot, Forbes, 27 Dec. 2024

That’s almost too much goodness to handle, and Alan Cumming is going to wrap it all up in a Tartan-print bow for our viewing delight. —Samantha Allen, Them, 19 Dec. 2024

And nothing beats a classic claw clip—thank goodness for Machete, France Luxe, and Emi Jay for timeless styles sure to be worn again and again. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 25 Dec. 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