-ness (). [AS. -ness, -nyss, -nys; akin to OS. -nissi, nussi, D. -nis, OHG. -nissa, -nassi, -nussi, G. -nis, -niss, Goth. -inasus.]

A suffix used to form abstract nouns expressive of quality or state; as, goodness, greatness.

 

© Webster 1913.