forgetfulness
|for-get-ful-ness|
B2
🇺🇸
/fərˈɡɛtfəlnəs/
🇬🇧
/fəˈɡɛtfəlnəs/
(forgetful)
tendency to forget
Etymology
Etymology Information
'forgetfulness' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'forgietan,' where 'for-' meant 'away' and 'gietan' meant 'to grasp.'
Historical Evolution
'forgietan' transformed into the Middle English word 'forgeten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'forget.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to lose hold of something,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'failing to remember.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality or state of being forgetful; a tendency to forget things.
Her forgetfulness often led to missed appointments.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35