kind1
n.
- a class or type of people or things having similar characteristics.
▸character or nature:
the trials were different in kind from any that preceded them.
- each of the elements (bread and wine) of the Eucharist.
Phrase
Usage
The plural of kind often causes difficulty. With this or that, speaking of one kind, use a singular construction: that kind of fabric doesn't need ironing. With these or those, speaking of more than one kind, use a plural construction: these kinds of changes were observed in several species. The use of these kind (i.e. with kind in the singular), as in these kind of questions are not relevant, is ungrammatical and should be avoided.
Etymology
OE cynd(e), gecynd(e), of Gmc origin; rel. to kin.
kind2
adj.
-
(often kind to)
friendly, considerate, and generous.
▸(of a product) not harmful.
- archaic loving; affectionate.
Etymology
OE gecynde ‘natural, native’, in ME ‘well born or well bred’, whence ‘courteous, gentle’.