A favorably disposed attitude toward someone or something.
"The manager showed goodwill by generously extending the deadline to help a struggling client."
In plain English: Goodwill is the positive feeling of friendship and trust that people have toward each other.
"The company's reputation for excellent customer service generated significant goodwill among its clients."
Usage: Goodwill refers to a positive feeling of friendliness and trust between people, often used in business contexts to describe the intangible value of customer loyalty. It is distinct from financial assets because it represents reputation rather than tangible property that can be easily sold or measured.
Proper Noun
1
A surname.
"The local business was purchased by Mr. Goodwill last year."
Example Sentences
"The company's reputation for excellent customer service generated significant goodwill among its clients."noun
"The company showed goodwill by offering discounts to loyal customers."noun
"Her friendly demeanor created an immediate sense of goodwill among the new employees."noun
"After years of conflict, the two neighbors rebuilt their relationship with mutual goodwill."noun
The word goodwill comes from Middle English goodwille, meaning "a good will," and likely entered the language directly from Old English. Its core sense of friendly intent has remained unchanged since its earliest recorded use.