The quality of being great in ability, quality, or importance; exceptional achievement or character. Can refer to moral excellence, outstanding accomplishment, or significant influence.
From Old English great (large, big, coarse) plus the suffix -ness forming abstract nouns. The word evolved from describing physical size to moral and intellectual qualities by Middle English. The concept has been central to philosophy and politics since ancient times, debated by thinkers from Aristotle to modern leadership theorists.
The concept of greatness has evolved significantly across cultures and eras - what the ancient Greeks considered great (warrior prowess, honor) differs from modern Western ideals (innovation, humanitarian impact), reflecting changing values about human achievement and worth.
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