Langimage
English

foreignness

|for-eign-ness|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˈfɔːrənnəs/

🇬🇧

/ˈfɒrənnəs/

(foreign)

from another country

Base FormNoun
foreignforeigner
Etymology
Etymology Information

'foreignness' originates from the word 'foreign,' which comes from the Latin word 'foris,' meaning 'outside.'

Historical Evolution

'foris' transformed into the Old French word 'forain,' and eventually became the modern English word 'foreign' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'outside or external,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not native or familiar.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality or state of being foreign or unfamiliar.

The foreignness of the culture was both intriguing and intimidating.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/04/09 09:03