The milk of human kindness

usgb
noun

A natural tendency to be kind and compassionate.

Despite her tough exterior, she had the milk of human kindness in her heart.
Visual representation of "the milk of human kindness" - A natural tendency to be kind and compassionate

Often appears as...

  • overflow with the milk of human kindness
  • lack the milk of human kindness

Usage tips

Literary

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "the milk of human kindness"
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Shakespeare Origin

The phrase originates from Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' and represents gentleness or kindness in human nature.

Illustration for Shakespeare Origin
In literature class, we analyzed how Lady Macbeth requested to be unsexed because she believed she had too much of the milk of human kindness.
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Metaphorical Use

Used metaphorically to describe someone's gentle nature; not referring to actual milk.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
Even when he's strict, you can see the milk of human kindness in his decisions.
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Emotional Connotation

Carries an emotional weight, often used to highlight a person's soft-heartedness despite a contrary appearance.

Illustration for Emotional Connotation
The tough coach surprised us by showing the milk of human kindness to the losing team.
Visual representation of the word "The milk of human kindness"

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