Definition

The essential nature or quality of something; its inherent characteristics.

Example

The whatness of a person can be understood through their actions and beliefs.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the whatness of things around us?

Yeah, it's interesting to consider what makes something what it is.

Right? Like, what defines the essence of a person or an object?

Exactly! It's like trying to grasp the core of everything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Whatness is formed from "what" (from Old English "hwæt", meaning what or which) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "whatness" refers to the quality or state of being what something is, essentially its essence or nature.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'what' to remember that 'whatness' refers to the quality of being what something is.

Visually Confused Words