unhappiness

UK: ʌnˈhæp.i.nəs | US: ʌnˈhæp.i.nəs

Definition

  1. n. the state of being unhappy; sadness or discontent

Structure
un <not>happy <joyful>ness <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "unhappiness" is formed by combining three morphemes:

  1. un-: A prefix of Old English origin meaning "not," used to negate the following root.
  2. happy: Derived from Middle English "hap" (luck or chance), evolving to mean "joyful" by the 14th century.
  3. -ness: A noun-forming suffix from Old English "-nes," indicating a state or quality.
    The logical progression reflects a negation of joy ("unhappy") transformed into an abstract noun ("unhappiness") to describe the condition of lacking happiness.
Examples

  1. Her unhappiness was evident in her quiet demeanor.

  2. Prolonged unhappiness can affect physical health.

  3. He tried to hide his unhappiness with a forced smile.

  4. Financial struggles often lead to feelings of unhappiness.

  5. The therapist helped her address the root causes of her unhappiness.