Definition of Kind (meaning 1 of 3 — adjective)
Quick Meaning of Kind
Nice and caring toward others; showing that you want to help people.
Detailed Definition of Kind
Having a gentle, caring, and considerate nature; showing sympathy and helpfulness.
How to Pronounce Kind
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One syllable with the long /aɪ/ diphthong as in 'eye'. Rhymes with 'find'.
Watch out: Sometimes mispronounced with short vowel /kɪnd/ instead of long /aɪnd/.
Other Meanings of Kind
“Kind” has 3 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 2:
#2 Kind as a noun
A type or group of things that are similar or belong together.
kind of
#3 Kind as an adverb
Slightly or somewhat; used to soften or make less absolute.
kind of warm
Origin and Etymology of Kind
From Old English 'cynd', meaning nature or family; evolved to mean gentle nature.
How to Use Kind in a Sentence
Each example shows “kind” in the meaning “Nice and caring toward others; showing that you…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“My teacher is very kind to all the students.”
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“She showed me a kind gesture by helping with my homework.”
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“The kind elderly woman donated generously to the community.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Kind
Common Synonyms for Kind
Smart Synonyms for Kind — When to Use Each
- nice
- for general pleasant or friendly behavior
- generous
- for willingly giving time or resources
- thoughtful
- for showing care through attention to others' needs
Antonyms of Kind
Common Collocations with Kind
These phrases pair with “kind” in everyday English:
- kind person
- kind of
- kind gesture
- be kind to
- very kind
Common Mistakes When Using Kind
Even fluent speakers slip up with “kind”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He is very kind with animals.
- ✓ Correct: He is very kind to animals.
- Why: Use preposition 'to', not 'with', in the phrase 'kind to'.
- ✗ Wrong: She kindness helped everyone.
- ✓ Correct: Her kindness helped everyone.
- Why: 'Kindness' is a noun; use the adjective form 'kind' or the possessive 'her kindness'.
Other Forms of Kind
Frequently Asked Questions About Kind
What is the meaning of "Kind"?
Nice and caring toward others; showing that you want to help people.
How do you pronounce "Kind"?
The IPA is /kaɪnd/. One syllable with the long /aɪ/ diphthong as in 'eye'. Rhymes with 'find'.
What part of speech is "Kind"?
"Kind" is an adjective at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Kind"?
Common synonyms include nice, generous, caring.
How do you use "Kind" in a sentence?
For example: "My teacher is very kind to all the students."