offensiveness
|of/fen/sive/ness|
B2
🇺🇸
/əˈfɛnsɪvnəs/
🇬🇧
/əˈfensɪvnəs/
(offensive)
causing displeasure
Etymology
Etymology Information
'offensive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'offendere,' where 'ob-' meant 'against' and 'fendere' meant 'to strike.'
Historical Evolution
'offendere' transformed into the Old French word 'offensif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'offensive' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to strike against,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'causing displeasure or resentment.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality of being offensive or causing displeasure.
The offensiveness of his remarks was evident to everyone.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39