thickness

UK: ˈθɪknəs | US: ˈθɪknəs

Definition

  1. n. the measure or state of being thick

  2. n. a layer or stratum of material

  3. n. the quality of being dense or viscous

Structure
thick <dense>ness <noun suffix denoting state or quality>
Etymology

The word "thickness" originates from Old English þicnes, derived from þicce (thick) + the suffix -nes (equivalent to modern "-ness"). The root þicce traces back to Proto-Germanic þekuz, meaning "dense" or "compact." Over time, "-ness" became a standard suffix in English to form abstract nouns indicating a state or quality, making "thickness" a straightforward construction describing the property of being thick.

Examples

  1. The thickness of the ice determines its safety for skating.

  2. Apply a second coat of paint to increase the thickness.

  3. The thickness of the fog made driving hazardous.

  4. Measure the thickness of the paper with a caliper.

  5. The soup's thickness comes from the added cornstarch.