Pronunciation: [pˈɜːsɪnəs] (IPA) 
The word "pursiness" /ˈpɜːsɪnəs/ is primarily spelled with the letters "p-u-r-s-i-n-e-s-s". The /ɛ/ sound in the second syllable is often misheard as /i/ due to the similar articulation of these vowels. However, the correct spelling retains the "e" to indicate the short vowel sound. "Pursiness" refers to the quality of being pompous or self-important and is commonly used in describing individuals with arrogant attitudes or behaviors.
Pursiness is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being pursy. The term pursiness is derived from the adjective pursy, which describes a person who is stout or chubby, especially due to excessive weight or lack of physical activity.
In the general sense, pursiness can be understood as the condition of having a plump or rotund body shape. It usually implies an accumulation of excess fat or a lack of muscular definition. When someone is described as having pursiness, it means they have a tendency to carry extra weight in their abdomen, giving them a rounded appearance.
Pursiness can also be used metaphorically to describe an excess or abundance of something other than physical weight. For example, it can refer to an exaggerated sense of self-importance or an excessively pompous attitude. In this context, someone may be said to have a mind or personality that is "pursy."
The term pursiness is mainly used in colloquial or informal speech, and its usage has become less common in recent years. However, it can still be found in literature or in older texts, often used to describe a person's physical appearance, particularly in a critical or judgmental manner.
• See Pursy.
• Fatness, with shortness of breath.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The etymology of the word "pursiness" originates from the adjective "pursed", which comes from the Old English word "pyrsian". "Pyrsian" means to purse or pucker one's lips, primarily in an expression of discontent or disapproval. Over time, this expression eventually gave rise to the noun form "pursiness", which refers to a quality or state of being excessively prim, smug, or self-satisfied, often associated with self-importance.
