1
: the quality or state of being good
There's goodness in everyone.
They agreed to help out of the goodness of their hearts. [=because they are good and kind people]
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
the goodness of the vegetables
Cite this Entry
“Goodness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/goodness. Accessed 3 Sep. 2026.
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