countless
UK: ˈkaʊntləs | US: ˈkaʊntləs
adj. too numerous to be counted; innumerable
The word "countless" combines "count," derived from the Old French "conter" (to tally or enumerate), with the suffix "-less," meaning "without" (from Old English "-lēas"). The fusion creates a vivid image of something so abundant that it defies enumeration. The logic is straightforward: if something cannot be counted ("count" + "less"), it is effectively infinite in number. This construction reflects a common pattern in English where "-less" negates the root word’s action or quality.
The night sky was filled with countless stars.
She received countless letters of support.
Countless hours were spent perfecting the design.
The museum holds countless artifacts from ancient civilizations.
His contributions to science are countless.