two-sidedness
|two-sid-ed-ness|
/ˌtuːˈsaɪdɪdnəs/
having two sides
Etymology
'two-sidedness' originates from Modern English, formed by combining the numeral 'two' + the adjective 'sided' (from 'side' + the adjectival suffix '-ed') and the noun-forming suffix '-ness'.
'two' comes from Old English 'twā' (dual numeral), 'side' comes from Old English 'sīde' meaning 'flank, lateral surface', and the suffix '-ness' derives from Old English '-nes(s)e'; these elements combined in later English to create compounds like 'two-sided' and the abstract noun 'two-sidedness'.
Originally used in literal senses to indicate having two physical sides, the term broadened to include figurative senses—having two contrasting aspects or perspectives.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the condition or quality of having two sides or surfaces (literal, physical).
The two-sidedness of the board allowed craftsmen to work on both faces.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
the quality of presenting, involving, or considering two different, often opposing, perspectives or aspects (figurative).
The politician's two-sidedness made it hard for voters to predict his stance on the issue.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/19 14:39