Archaic term for the quality of being ghastly or horrifying; the state of causing extreme shock or revulsion.
From 'gast' (to frighten) + '-ness' (quality suffix). Medieval and Early Modern English term that has largely been replaced by 'ghastliness.'
This word reminds us that 'ghastly' feelings weren't always called that—medieval people said 'gastness,' a more direct and intense-sounding word!
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