Goodness | Definition of goodness by Merriam-Webster

Definition of GOODNESS

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

See goodness defined for English-language learners

First Known Use of GOODNESS

before 12th century

Related to GOODNESS

Synonyms: character, decency, morality, honesty, integrity, probity, rectitude, righteousness, rightness, uprightness, virtue, virtuousness

Antonyms: badness, evil, evildoing, immorality, iniquity, sin, villainy, wickedness

Definition of GOODNESS for Kids

1

: the quality or state of being good <Vegetables have natural goodness.>

2

: excellence of morals and behavior <My grandparents Hiddle were … full up to the tops of their heads with goodness and sweetness … — Sharon Creech, Walk Two Moons>

Learn More About GOODNESS

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for "goodness"

Spanish Central: Spanish translation of "goodness"

Nglish: Translation of "goodness" for Spanish speakers

Britannica English: Translation of "goodness" for Arabic speakers

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