giftedness

UK: ˈɡɪftɪdnəs | US: ˈɡɪftɪdnəs

Definition
  1. n. the state or quality of having exceptional natural ability or talent

Structure
gift <natural ability>ed <adjective suffix>ness <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "giftedness" derives from "gift," originally meaning "something given" (Old English giefu), which evolved to signify innate talent by the 16th century. The suffix "-ed" transforms "gift" into an adjective ("gifted"), describing someone endowed with talent, while "-ness" nominalizes it to denote the abstract quality. This construction reflects a Germanic pattern of forming abstract nouns from adjectives.

Examples
  1. Her giftedness in mathematics was evident from an early age.

  2. The school specializes in nurturing children with artistic giftedness.

  3. Genetic and environmental factors both contribute to giftedness.

  4. His giftedness set him apart from his peers in academic competitions.

  5. Recognizing giftedness requires careful observation and assessment.