Pronunciation: [pˈɪtifə͡lnəs] (IPA) 
Pitifulness is spelled with the letter "i" after "t" because it contains the suffix "ful" meaning "full of" or "having the qualities of". This suffix comes after the root word "pitiful" which is pronounced /ˈpɪtɪfəl/. The suffix "ful" is pronounced with a full /fʊl/ sound. Therefore, the pronunciation of pitifulness is /ˈpɪtɪfəlnəs/. The word refers to the state of being full of pity or causing feelings of compassion or sadness.
Pitifulness is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being pitiful. It is derived from the adjective "pitiful," which describes something or someone that evokes feelings of sorrow, sympathy, or compassion due to their unfortunate or distressing circumstances.
The word "pitifulness" encompasses the notion of eliciting feelings of pity or compassion, characterizing something that evokes these emotions by producing a sense of sadness, empathy, or commiseration. Something or someone that possesses pitifulness often stirs a desire within others to help or alleviate their suffering.
This term can pertain to the physical, emotional, or mental distress a person experiences, as well as to the external appearance of something that may be considered pathetic or despairing. Moreover, pitifulness can encompass not only individual situations, but also broader contexts, such as societal or global circumstances that evoke a strong sense of sympathy or concern.
The concept of pitifulness is often associated with vulnerability or a sense of powerlessness, highlighting the imbalance of power or fortune between the subject and those who perceive their plight. It can engender acts of kindness, charity, or support, as well as motivate individuals to work towards improving these distressing circumstances.
In conclusion, pitifulness describes the state or quality of invoking feelings of pity or compassion in others due to unfortunate circumstances, typically guiding people towards acts of empathy and support.
The state of being pitiful.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pitifulness" is derived from the adjective "pitiful", which originated in the 15th century. It is formed by combining "pite" (noun form of "pity") with the suffix "-ful", which means "full of" or "characterized by". The word "pite" traces back to the Old French term "pitē", meaning "compassion" or "pity", and can be ultimately traced to the Latin word "pīetās", meaning "piety" or "compassion". Over time, the suffix "-ful" was added to "pite" to create the noun "pitifulness", which refers to the state or quality of being pitiful or deserving of pity.
