Langimage
English

goodwill

|good/will|

B2

/ˌɡʊdˈwɪl/

friendly attitude or business reputation

Etymology
Etymology Information

'goodwill' originates from Old English, specifically the words 'gōd' meaning 'good' and 'will' meaning 'desire or wish'.

Historical Evolution

'gōdwill' in Old English transformed into the modern English word 'goodwill'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a good desire or wish', but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'friendly attitude' and 'business reputation'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a friendly or helpful attitude towards other people or countries.

The ambassador's visit was a gesture of goodwill.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

the established reputation of a business regarded as a quantifiable asset.

The company's goodwill was valued at $1 million.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41