freshness

UK: ˈfreʃnəs | US: ˈfreʃnəs

Definition

  1. n. the quality of being fresh; newness, crispness, or vitality

  2. n. (of food) the state of being recently harvested or prepared

  3. n. (figuratively) liveliness or originality

Structure
fresh <new, cool>ness <noun suffix denoting state or quality>
Etymology

The word "freshness" combines the adjective "fresh," derived from Old English fersc (meaning "unsalted, pure, new"), with the suffix "-ness," which originates from Old English -nes (used to form abstract nouns indicating a state or condition). "Fresh" itself traces back to Proto-Germanic friskaz, linked to vitality and newness. Over time, "freshness" evolved to describe not just physical newness (e.g., food) but also metaphorical vigor (e.g., ideas or energy).

Examples

  1. The freshness of morning dew invigorates the garden.

  2. She appreciated the freshness of the bakery’s bread.

  3. His ideas brought a welcome freshness to the project.

  4. The salad’s freshness depended on using locally sourced vegetables.

  5. A breeze carried the freshness of the ocean into the room.