goodness

noun

good·​ness ˈgu̇d-nəs How to pronounce goodness (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sauvignon Blanc – The Zesty One For those who like their wines fresh, zippy, and full of citrusy goodness, Sauvignon Blanc is the way to go. Emily Price, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025 While 29% of Americans go for apple pie, 23% of Americans used Instacart in 2024 to order a spiced, creamy pumpkin pie full of autumn goodness (West Coasters and Floridians order pumpkin pie year-round!). Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Mar. 2025 If goodness even exists, are these people really its avatars? Judy Berman, TIME, 3 Mar. 2025 March brings his Everyman charisma to the part of Dr. Jekyll, a scientist with a morbid fascination with the goodness and evil of humanity. EW.com, 2 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for goodness

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of goodness was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Goodness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/goodness. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on goodness

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!