fussiness
|fuss-i-ness|
/ˈfʌs.i.nəs/
being overly particular or making unnecessary commotion
Etymology
'fussiness' originates from English, specifically formed from the adjective 'fussy' plus the suffix '-ness' to form a noun meaning 'the state or quality of being fussy'.
'fussiness' developed from 'fussy' (adjective), which in turn was formed from 'fuss' (noun/verb) + adjectival suffix '-y'. The word 'fuss' is recorded in English from the late 18th century and 'fussy' and 'fussiness' appeared later as derived forms.
Originally, 'fuss' referred to an unnecessary display of worry or commotion; over time, derived forms such as 'fussy' and 'fussiness' came to describe a personal tendency to be overly particular or hard to please.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality or state of being fussy; undue concern with small details or cleanliness.
Her fussiness about the table setting was obvious to everyone.
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Noun 2
the tendency to be hard to please; picky or selective behaviour (often about food or minor preferences).
The child's fussiness at mealtimes makes cooking a challenge.
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Last updated: 2025/09/10 17:41