[f. as prec. + -NESS.]
1. The quality or habit of being kindly. b. with pl. An instance of this, a kindly deed.
c. 1440. Promp. Parv., 271/2. Kendlynesse of a gentyl herte…, gratitudo.
1561. Norton & Sackv., Gorboduc, I. i. In kinde a father, not in kindlinesse.
1645. Milton, Tetrach., Wks. (1847), 185/2. (Gen. ii. 24) The fleshly act indeed may continue, but … more ignoble than that mute kindliness among the herds and flocks.
1791. Boswell, Johnson, 17 April an. 1778. A kindliness of disposition very rare at an advanced age.
1883. Black, Shandon Bells, xxxi. Their life … was … full of cheering activities and kindlinesses.
2. Mildness or amenity (of climate or season) favorable to vegetation.
1654. R. Whitlock, Ζωοτομια, 427. Fruits, and Corn are much advanced by temper of the Aire, and Kindlinesse of Seasons.
1794. G. Adams, Nat. & Exp. Philos., III. xxxv. 456. We ascribe … kindliness to dews.
