What does kindly mean?
Kindly is a versatile word that functions as both an adjective and an adverb. As an adjective, it describes someone or something marked by goodwill, generosity, compassion, or courtesy: a kindly neighbour, for example, may offer practical help without expecting anything in return. As an adverb, it modifies an action and indicates that it is performed in a kind, considerate, courteous, or helpful way. The expression “Would you kindly…?” is especially common in formal requests, where “kindly” softens the wording while making a clear request. Although standard in both British and American English, this formulaic use may sound traditional or somewhat old-fashioned to some speakers. Kindly can also suggest a warmer, more personal manner than simply saying someone did something “helpfully.” Its long history and close connection to the noun “kind” make it a useful word for expressing benevolence, politeness, and considerate conduct.
Showing kindness, goodwill, generosity, or compassion; courteous.
"A kindly stranger helped us find the right station."
The adjective is especially associated with a warm, considerate manner and is common in both British and American English.
In a kind, courteous, considerate, or helpful manner.
"He kindly agreed to give us a lift."
In the fixed expression “Would you kindly…?”, it is a formal politeness formula and may sound traditional or slightly old-fashioned in some contexts.
One of English’s politest words can sound almost like a small command—but its warmth usually wins.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does kindly come from?
Kindly developed in English from the word “kind” together with the suffix “-ly,” with the adjective form emerging in the Middle English period and later gaining its modern sense of being benevolent or courteous. The noun “kind” comes from Old English “ġecynd,” meaning “birth,” “nature,” or “kindred,” and is related to cognates such as German “Kind” and Dutch “kind.” “Kindliness” is a later noun formed from “kindly,” while “unkindly” was created by adding the negative prefix “un-.”
Related word forms
How kindly is actually used
In British and American English, “Would you kindly…?” is formally polite but can sound old-fashioned or slightly brusque in some contexts. Outside of formulaic requests, “kindly” generally conveys a warm and considerate manner.
Easily confused with kindly
Kindly describes benevolent or courteous behaviour, whereas kind can describe a person's good nature and also means a category or type, as in “a kind of music.”