goodnatured

Goodnatured is an adjective used to describe a person, animal, or temperament that is naturally pleasant, kind, and easy to get along with. A goodnatured individual typically displays friendliness, patience, and a non-confrontational attitude. The term emphasizes habitual warmth and sociability rather than a momentary mood, making it a common descriptor in both everyday and literary contexts.

Etymology and forms: The word combines good with natured, from the concept of nature or disposition. It has appeared in English since at least the Early Modern period. Variants include good-natured (hyphenated) and good natured (two words). In some modern texts, the closed form goodnatured is used, though hyphenation remains more common in contemporary writing.

Usage and nuance: Goodnatured is typically applied to people and, less commonly, to animals or forms of humor that are gentle and considerate. It conveys a positive, amicable temperament. In some contexts, however, its praise can carry a faint implication of passivity or a reluctance to engage in conflict, depending on tone and intent.

Related terms and forms: Synonyms include amiable, affable, benevolent, good-humored, and mild-mannered. The corresponding noun is good naturedness or good-naturedness, and adverbial usage such as goodnaturedly is rare in modern speech but may appear in linguistic or formal writing. The term remains a straightforward descriptor in dictionaries and usage guides.