Contentedness

/kənˈtɛntɪdnəs/ noun

Definition

The state or quality of being satisfied, peaceful, and happy with one's situation or possessions.

Etymology

From 'contented' (satisfied) plus -ness (a suffix creating abstract nouns meaning 'the quality of'). This double suffix structure (-ed + -ness) is common in English.

Kelly Says

Philosophers have long debated that 'contentedness' is different from happiness—you can be content (satisfied with less) without being happy (feeling joy), which is why some argue contentedness is actually more sustainable.

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