Definition

The quality of being unkind or not nice to others; a lack of kindness.

Example

Her unkindliness towards her classmates made her very unpopular.

Conversation

I can't believe how much unkindliness I've seen online lately.

Yeah, it's really disappointing to see people treat each other that way.

It makes me wonder why some people choose unkindliness over kindness.

I guess some just don't realize the impact of their words.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unkindliness → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "kind" (from Old English "cynd", meaning nature or character) and "-liness" (meaning the state of being). The word "unkindliness" refers to the state of not being kind or lacking kindness.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'kind' (which relates to nature or character) and then adding '-liness' to describe the state of that nature. This helps you remember that 'unkindliness' means the state of not being kind.

Visually Confused Words