Definition

The state of being stale, musty, or old-fashioned, often referring to ideas or environments that feel outdated or uninviting.

Example

The fustiness of the old library made it hard to concentrate on my studies.

Conversation

Have you noticed the fustiness in that old bookstore downtown?

Yeah, it definitely has that musty smell of old books.

I love it, though; it adds character to the place.

True, but I wish they would air it out a bit more!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fustiness → It is formed from "fusty" (from Middle English *fusty*, meaning musty or stale) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "fustiness" refers to the state of being musty or stale, often associated with a lack of freshness.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'fusty' which means musty or stale, and remember that 'fustiness' describes the quality of being musty.

Visually Confused Words