The word "clamminess" is spelled with a double "m" and double "n" to indicate that the vowel sound in the middle is short. The IPA phonetic transcription for "clamminess" is /ˈklæmɪnɪs/. The /m/ and /n/ sounds are both nasal consonants, which means air flows through the nose when they are pronounced. The stressed syllable is the second one, indicated by the apostrophe in the transcription. Clamminess refers to the state of being damp or sticky, often due to perspiration.
Clamminess refers to a state or condition characterized by a damp or moist quality. It is often related to objects or surfaces that possess a cool and slightly wet feeling. The term can also apply to the physical sensation experienced by individuals, where they may perceive their skin or body as damp or sweaty, resulting in an uncomfortable and sticky sensation.
In a literal sense, clamminess can be associated with certain materials, such as fabrics or metals, which tend to retain moisture and create a clammy texture. For example, a glass of cold water left out in a humid environment may accumulate condensation on its surface, leading to a clammy feeling when touched.
When describing a person's physical state, clamminess refers to excessive perspiration or sweating that causes the skin to feel wet and cool to the touch. This condition can be a result of various factors, including high humidity levels, emotional stress, physical exertion, certain medical conditions, or medication side effects.
Clamminess is often associated with feelings of discomfort or unease, as the dampness can cause clothes to stick to the body and create an unpleasant sensation. Moreover, it may be linked to health concerns, such as fever, anxiety, or low blood sugar levels.
Overall, clamminess encompasses the presence of moisture on surfaces or objects and the associated physical sensation, typically associated with discomfort and a moist, slightly cool touch.
State of being sticky; tenacity.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "clamminess" is derived from the noun "clammy", which dates back to the late 16th century. "Clammy" originally meant "cold and damp" and is believed to have originated from the Old English word "clæman" meaning "to smear or plaster" or from an Old Norse word "kleima" meaning "to drip". Over time, "clammy" came to describe a sensation of cold and dampness, especially when referring to the skin. From "clammy", the noun "clamminess" was formed, referring to the state or condition of being clammy.