Definition

The quality of being unpleasant, dirty, or morally offensive.

Example

The nastiness of the situation made everyone uncomfortable.

Conversation

Did you notice the nastiness in the kitchen after the party?

Yeah, I saw it! It was pretty gross.

I can't believe we let it get that messy.

Next time, we should clean up right away to avoid that nastiness.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nastiness → It is formed from "nasty" (from Middle English *nasti*, meaning unpleasant or offensive) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "nastiness" refers to the state of being unpleasant or offensive.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'nasty' to remember that 'nastiness' means the quality of being unpleasant.

Visually Confused Words