worthiness
UK: ˈwɜːðɪnəs | US: ˈwɜrðinəs
n. the quality or state of deserving respect, attention, or approval
n. the value or merit of something or someone
The word "worthiness" combines the Old English root "worthy," meaning "deserving" or "having merit," with the suffix "-ness," which transforms adjectives into nouns denoting a state or condition. "Worthy" itself traces back to the Proto-Germanic *werþaz (value), linked to the concept of being esteemed or valuable. Over time, "-ness" (from Old English "-nes") became a productive suffix in English to abstract qualities, solidifying "worthiness" as a term for the state of being deserving.
Her actions demonstrated her worthiness for the leadership role.
The committee questioned the worthiness of the proposed project.
His worthiness of trust was never in doubt.
The award recognized her worthiness as a community leader.
They debated the worthiness of investing in such a risky venture.