Definition

The quality or state of being limited in width or extent.

Example

The narrowness of the street made it difficult for two cars to pass each other.

Conversation

Have you noticed the narrowness of this street?

Yeah, it feels a bit cramped, especially with all the cars parked.

I wonder if they'll ever widen it to make it more accessible.

I hope so! The narrowness can be really frustrating during rush hour.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Narrowness → It is formed from "narrow" (from Old English "nearwe", meaning tight or constricted) and "-ness" (a suffix indicating a state or quality). The word "narrowness" refers to the state of being tight or constricted.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word for tightness ('nearwe') to remember that 'narrowness' describes the quality of being tight or constricted.

Visually Confused Words