Definition

The state of occurring in irregular or intermittent bursts rather than continuously.

Example

Her sleep was marked by fitfulness, waking up several times during the night.

Conversation

I had the strangest night of sleep last night.

Really? What happened?

I kept waking up due to my fitfulness — it was exhausting.

That sounds rough! I hate nights like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fitfulness → It is formed from "fit" (from Old English *fitt*, meaning a condition or state) and "-fulness" (meaning the quality of being full of). The word "fitfulness" refers to the quality of being in a state of fits or irregularity.

Memory Tip

Think of being in a 'condition' ('fit') that is 'full of' irregularity ('-fulness'). This helps you remember that fitfulness describes a state of inconsistency or irregularity.

Visually Confused Words