Heartedness

/ˈhɑːr.tɪd.nəs/ noun

Definition

The quality or state of having a particular disposition or emotional character, as in 'kindhearted-ness' or 'coldhearted-ness.'

Etymology

From '-hearted' (an adjective suffix) + '-ness' (Old English suffix forming abstract nouns). Creates nouns describing the fundamental emotional character or nature of a person.

Kelly Says

English has dozens of '-heartedness' formations (kindhearted, hardhearted, lighthearted, etc.), but we rarely nominalize them into '-heartedness'—which is why these words feel fresh and alive when we do create them.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.