kind
Caring and helpful toward others.
The word kind has two main meanings:
- A type or category of thing. When you ask “What kind of ice cream do you want?” you're asking about the type or flavor. Scientists classify animals into different kinds, like mammals, reptiles, and birds. When someone says “I've never seen that kind of cloud before,” they mean that particular type or variety. You might also hear phrases like one of a kind (completely unique) or kind of (somewhat, like “I'm kind of hungry”).
- Caring, helpful, and considerate toward others. A kind person thinks about other people's feelings and tries to help when they can. When someone shares their lunch with a classmate who forgot theirs, holds the door open, or comforts a friend who's upset, they're being kind. Kindness shows up in small gestures, like a warm greeting, and big ones, like volunteering to help others. Being kind doesn't mean being a pushover or letting people take advantage of you. It means treating others with respect and consideration, including yourself.