fixedness
|fixed-ness|
/ˈfɪkstnəs/
state of being fixed/firm
Etymology
'fixedness' originates from English, formed by the adjective 'fixed' plus the noun-forming suffix '-ness'. 'fixed' ultimately derives from Latin 'fixus', from the verb 'figere' meaning 'to fasten'.
'fixed' entered English via French 'fixer' (modern French) from Latin 'fixus' (past participle of 'figere'). The suffix '-ness' is a Germanic/Old English nominalizing element that formed nouns meaning 'state or quality'. Over time these elements combined in English as 'fixedness'.
Initially related specifically to being fastened or attached ('to fasten'), the sense broadened to denote more general 'state of being fixed' including stability, determination, or lack of variability.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the state or quality of being fixed, firmly attached, or immobile.
The fixedness of the monument made any relocation impractical.
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Noun 2
the quality of being definite, settled, or not easily changed (as in opinions, plans, or arrangements).
Her fixedness about the decision slowed the negotiation process.
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Noun 3
in linguistics, the degree to which a word combination or expression is fixed or idiomatic (low internal variability).
Researchers measured the fixedness of several collocations across corpora.
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Last updated: 2025/11/12 14:16