Germanness

/ˈdʒɜrmən.nəs/ noun

Definition

The quality or state of being German; the distinctive character or essence of German culture and identity.

Etymology

From German + -ness (from Old English -ness, a suffix forming abstract nouns). This noun parallels similar formations like 'Frenchness' or 'Italianness'.

Kelly Says

Philosophers have endlessly debated 'Germanness'—is it about blood, language, geography, or philosophy? This abstract concept became dangerously politicized, especially in the 20th century.

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