The spelling of "earnestness" is derived from the root word "earnest" which means showing deep sincerity or seriousness. The word is spelled phonetically as /ˈɜː.nɪst.nəs/ where the primary stress falls on the second syllable. The vowel sound in the first syllable is pronounced as the "er" sound in "herd" while the final syllable is pronounced with the "ness" sound. The word is commonly used to describe a person’s sincerity, dedication or commitment towards a particular cause or action.
Earnestness is a noun that refers to the quality or state of being sincere, serious, and deeply committed to a cause or task. It is characterized by a genuine and heartfelt dedication, a sense of purpose, and a profound level of attentiveness. When someone displays earnestness, they exhibit a strong desire to achieve a specific outcome or to convey their honest feelings and intentions.
A person who possesses earnestness approaches their actions and interactions with utmost sincerity and seriousness, regardless of the circumstances. They prioritize the pursuit of truth and apply wholehearted effort to their endeavors. This trait can be observed in various aspects of life, such as personal relationships, work commitments, and even in the pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement.
Individuals who embody earnestness often display a genuine concern for others, demonstrating empathy and compassion. They tend to communicate earnestly, expressing their thoughts and emotions sincerely, without ulterior motives or insincerity. People who interact with earnest individuals often perceive them as trustworthy and reliable, as they consistently convey their intentions and beliefs with utmost honesty.
Earnestness fosters a strong sense of determination and perseverance in the face of challenges. It is an inherent quality that motivates individuals to give their best effort and remain committed, regardless of setbacks or obstacles. Earnestness has the power to inspire and influence others, as it radiates authenticity and dedication.
Seriousness; serious event; not a feigned appearance; in earnest, not in jest; really intent on.
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 "earnestness" originated from the Old English word "earnest" or "ernest", which can be traced back to the Old High German word "ernust". The term "ernust" denoted seriousness or determination. It ultimately comes from the Proto-Germanic word "ernustus", which means "earnest" or "serious". "Earnestness" entered the English language in the 16th century and has since been used to express sincerity, seriousness, or deep conviction.