airiness

[ air-ee-nis ]

noun

1. openness to the air:

   the airiness of a balcony facing the sea.

2. sprightliness of manner:

   a ballet marked by airiness and deft movement.

3. snobbishness; affectation.

airiness

/ ˈɛərɪnɪs /

noun

1. the quality or condition of being fresh, light, or breezy
2. lightness of heart; gaiety

Word History and Origins

Origin of airiness¹

First recorded in 1735–45; airy + -ness

Example Sentences

She had a freedom, an airiness — just a beauty about her.

From Los Angeles Times

Frosted glass surfaces, bright colors and a mezzanine add a sense of airiness to the windowless book conservation lab.

From New York Times

Hanging from the ceiling will be concrete sound clouds designed to improve acoustics and evoke a sense of airiness.

From Los Angeles Times

As a star of “Riverdance,” she delighted audiences with the clarity, delicacy and airiness of her dancing.

From New York Times

Balancing our composition, the flowering stems of giant feather grass introduce airiness and movement to the summer garden.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• elegance
• fragility
• lightness
• subtlety
• tenderness