Definition

The quality of being very thin or delicate, often used to describe the purity of precious metals.

Example

The jeweler checked the fineness of the gold before making the ring.

Conversation

Have you ever looked into the fineness of that gold necklace you bought?

Not really, I just liked how it looked!

I think knowing the fineness is important, especially for resale value.

That's true, I should definitely check it out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fineness → It is formed from "fine" (from Old French *fin*, meaning delicate or subtle) and "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "fineness" refers to the quality of being fine or delicate.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'delicate' or 'subtle' ('fine') and how that quality is described by the suffix '-ness', which indicates a state or quality.

Visually Confused Words