Dismality

/dɪzˈmælɪti/ noun

Definition

The quality or state of being dismal; gloominess, dreariness, or bleakness.

Etymology

From dismal + -ity (Latin suffix forming abstract nouns). This formation is typical of Early Modern English but has become rare as 'dismalness' is now preferred.

Kelly Says

Words ending in -ity like 'dismality' feel formal and old-fashioned compared to -ness words, which is why you'll find 'dismality' in Victorian novels but 'dismalness' in modern writing.

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