Merriam-Webster's Collegiate® Dictionary, 11th Edition
KIND
I. noun
Etymology: Middle English kinde, from Old English cynd; akin to Old English cynn kin Date: before 12th century
1. nature , family , lineage , manner , fundamental nature or quality ; essence ,
4. a group united by common traits or interests ; category , a specific or recognized variety , a doubtful or barely admissible member of a category ,
5. goods or commodities as distinguished from money , the equivalent of what has been offered or received, see: type
II. adjective
Date: 14th century
affectionate , loving ,
2. of a sympathetic or helpful nature, of a forbearing nature ; gentle , arising from or characterized by sympathy or forbearance , of a kind to give pleasure or relief