-ness

-nesssuffix

1. added to an adjective to make a noun that names the quality or state the adjective describes

   -ness attaches to a great many adjectives, especially everyday ones, and to forms in -ed or -ing (tiredness, willingness); the noun is usually uncountable. Many adjectives from Latin prefer -ity instead (curious, curiosity; generous, generosity), and some adjectives have their own noun (strong, strength; wise, wisdom; hot, heat), so check before making a -ness word. A final y becomes i: happy, happiness.

   uncountable [U]

   • Her kindness will not be forgotten.
   • The darkness made it hard to see.
   • He was off work because of illness.
   • There was a sudden stillness in the room.

   Compare ity (-ity often goes with adjectives from Latin: curiosity, stupidity; -ness attaches more freely, including to everyday adjectives: happiness, sadness); th (-th forms a few old nouns: strength, warmth, width)

   1. aone example of the quality, as a countable noun: an act that shows it, or a particular fault or liking

      countable [C]

      • Chocolate is my one weakness.
      • It would be a kindness to tell him the truth.