Definition

The state of being very thin and bony, often due to illness or lack of food.

Example

His gauntness was a clear sign that he had been unwell for a long time.

Conversation

Have you noticed how much weight Sarah has lost lately?

Yeah, I saw her the other day and she looked a bit too thin.

I hope it's not due to stress; her gauntness is concerning.

I agree. She might need to talk to someone about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gauntness is formed from "gaunt" (from Middle English "gaunt", meaning thin or haggard) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "gauntness" refers to the state of being thin or haggard.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who looks very thin or haggard — that's what 'gauntness' means, the quality of being gaunt.

Visually Confused Words