Pronunciation: [wˈannəs] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "wanness" can be quite confusing for some. It is pronounced /ˈweɪnəs/ and means a pale or sickly appearance. The reason for its spelling has to do with the rules of English morphology. Generally, when a word ending in "y" gains a suffix, the "y" changes to an "i" and then the suffix is added. In this case, the suffix "-ness" is added after dropping the "y" in "waney" resulting in "wanness."
Wanness is a noun that refers to the state or condition of lacking color or having a pale complexion. It primarily describes the appearance of a person's skin, particularly when it becomes noticeably pale or colorless due to illness, fatigue, or anemia. Wanness may also be used to describe a lack of vitality or energy, contributing to a general sense of weakness or weariness.
This term is often associated with a sickly or unhealthy appearance, as it suggests a loss of the natural rosy or vibrant hue that characterizes healthy skin. Wanness is frequently used to describe the complexion of individuals affected by various medical conditions, such as chronic illnesses, blood disorders, or acute infections. It can also be a symptom of emotional or psychological distress, such as extreme sadness, anxiety, or exhaustion.
The term wanness is derived from the Old English "wan," meaning pale or pallid. It conveys a sense of the absence or diminished presence of color in the face or overall appearance of an individual. In literature and poetry, wanness is often employed as a metaphor to describe the loss of vitality or beauty in a person, object, or landscape. Overall, wanness serves as a linguistic tool to vividly express the physical and metaphorical aspects of paleness and lack of vibrancy in various contexts.
A sallow pale colour.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "wanness" is derived from the Old English word "wan", which means pale or pallid. It entered Middle English as "wanenesse", and eventually evolved into "wanness" in modern English. The term is often used to describe a pale or unhealthy complexion.
