Meaning
A word people say when they are surprised or shocked.
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Word origin
From Old English godnes, the quality of being good. People began saying it in place of the word God when they were surprised.
- Origin
- Old English
- Root
- godnes
- English cognates
- good
Examples
, !
"Goodness" shows surprise, often about something sudden.
, !
"My goodness" is the most common form.
.
"Thank goodness" shows relief that something is over.
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English · Free printables
goodness: worksheet, infographic and listicle
Free printable study downloads for the English word "goodness" (A word people say when they are surprised or shocked.): a worksheet with the answer key built in, an infographic, and a sentence listicle. Open any one to view, print or save.
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Start your free weekThis word is taught in chapter 18, lesson 12: goodness, seal, farm and 5 more words.