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Definition of -ness in English:

-ness

suffix

  • 1(forming nouns chiefly from adjectives) denoting a state or condition.

    ‘liveliness’
    • ‘sadness’
    1. 1.1(forming nouns chiefly from adjectives) an instance of a state or condition.
      • ‘a kindness’

  • 2(forming nouns chiefly from adjectives) something in a certain state.

    • ‘wilderness’

Pronunciation

-ness

/nəs/ /nis/ /nɪs/

Origin

Old English -nes, -ness, of Germanic origin.