The word "crustiness" is spelled with a "c" followed by an "r" and a "u" which create the /kr/ sound. The "s" and "t" follow to create the /st/ sound. The vowel "i" is pronounced as /ɪ/ and is followed by "n" and "e" creating the /nɛs/ sound. Finally, the "s" at the end of the word is pronounced as /s/. Therefore, "crustiness" is pronounced as /ˈkrʌstɪnɛs/. This word refers to the state of being crusty or having a hard and dry outer layer.
Crustiness is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being crusty. It describes a person's or thing's tendency to exhibit a hard, rough, or coarse exterior texture, often characterized by a layer of hardened material or residue that forms on the surface. This term can also be metaphorically used to describe a person's attitude or behavior.
In a physical sense, crustiness may refer to the presence of a hardened or brittle layer on a surface, such as the crust that forms on bread or the rough outer layer of dried paint. It can also describe the rough texture of certain natural formations like rocks or the scaly texture of a reptile's skin.
Metaphorically, crustiness can describe someone as being gruff, irritable, or ill-tempered. It implies a rough or harsh manner of communication or interaction. A crusty person may be difficult to approach or engage with, often displaying a certain level of crabbiness or aloofness that make them appear unapproachable or unfriendly.
The term can also be used to describe an individual's traditional or old-fashioned mindset or beliefs. A crusty person may be resistant to change, clinging to conservative or outdated ideas and practices. This notion of being unyielding or resistant to novelty is synonymous with the concept of crustiness.
The quality of being crusty; peevishness; moroseness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "crustiness" is derived from the adjective "crusty", which dates back to the late Middle English period. Its etymology can be traced to the Old French word "crousté", meaning "crust" or "hard exterior". This Old French word ultimately comes from the Latin word "crustātus", which refers to something covered with a hard shell or crust. The suffix "-ness" is added to the adjective "crusty" to transform it into a noun, creating "crustiness", referring to the state or quality of being crusty.