Earnestness
/ˈɜːrnəst.nəs/noun
The quality of being serious and sincere in intention or effort.
Did you know?The word 'earnest' is believed to be connected to ancient rituals where sincerity was essential to invoke the gods' favor, making 'earnestness' a form of sacred intention.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*eiznō
“to honor or value, a concept of seriousness.”
Old English
OE
eornest
“seriousness or sincerity, reflecting a grave intention.”
Middle English
ME
eernest
“a state of being serious, often used in prayer contexts.”
16th Century
English
earnest
“a pledge or token of seriousness, especially in agreements.”
17th Century
English
earnestness
“the quality of being earnest, emphasizing sincerity in actions and intentions.”