Definition

The state or quality of being not nice or friendly to others.

Example

Her unkindness towards her classmates made her very unpopular.

Conversation

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

Yeah, it's really disheartening to witness.

It's sad that people feel the need to spread unkindness instead of positivity.

Absolutely, we should focus on lifting each other up instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

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

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'kind' — this helps you remember that 'unkindness' means the state of lacking kindness.

Visually Confused Words