kind
Caring and gentle toward others; also a type or category.
Word facts
Definition
Kind as an adjective describes someone who is friendly, generous, and caring toward others. As a noun, a kind means a type or category of something.
Usage: Kind as an adjective describes behaviour and character. Kind as a noun means a category: 'a kind of music'. Kindly is the adverb: 'Please kindly wait'.
Example sentences
- 1
It was kind of you to help without being asked.
- 2
She has a kind and generous spirit that everyone appreciates.
- 3
What kind of books do you enjoy reading?
Word family
From Old English gecynde ('natural, native') and cynd ('nature, kind'). Kind originally meant natural or of one's nature. Being kind to family was 'natural', and this sense spread to all friendly behaviour.
Kind contains 'kin' — your kin are family, and you are naturally kind to family. Extend that feeling outward.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What is the noun form of kind (adjective)?
The noun is kindness. Example: Small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
What does 'a kind of' mean?
A kind of means a type or category of something. Example: 'A kind of blue' means a type of blue colour.