Artlessness: meaning, definitions and examples
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artlessness
[ ˈärtˌləsnəs ]
innocent simplicity
Artlessness refers to a state of being innocent, simple, and free from deceit or guile. It embodies a kind of genuineness and straightforwardness in one's manner or conduct. This quality often implies a lack of sophistication or artifice, suggesting a purity and candidness in expression or behavior.
Synonyms
guilelessness, innocence, naivety, simplicity
Examples of usage
- Her artlessness endeared her to many.
- The child's artlessness was refreshing in a world full of deceit.
- He spoke with an artlessness that revealed his true feelings.
Word origin
The word 'artlessness' derives from the combination of 'artless', which means without deceit or craft, and the suffix '-ness', indicating a state or quality. The term 'artless' can be traced back to Middle English 'artles', stemming from Old English 'earfōd', which conveys the notion of simplicity and lack of artifice. Over time, 'artlessness' has come to denote not only the absence of complex traits but also an earnestness and honesty in character. The use of 'artlessness' has evolved within English literature, often celebrated in the context of youthful innocence or genuine charm, reflecting a contrast to the manipulative qualities sometimes associated with worldly wisdom.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #36,408, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.
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- 36405 targetted
- 36406 hydrating
- 36407 overplayed
- 36408 artlessness
- 36409 raunchy
- 36410 nutria
- 36411 masturbatory
- ...