meanness

[meen-nis]

noun

1. the state or quality of being mean.

2. a mean act.

   to answer meannesses with forgiveness.

Word History and Origins

Origin of meanness¹

First recorded in 1550–60; mean ² + -ness

Example Sentences

Trump's bad behavior and other extreme positions, and just meanness will also likely push more American voters away from him.

From Salon

But watch those eyes widen when suddenly there’s a test of guts and his meanness flares again.

From Los Angeles Times

There are many reasons for the anger Nazanin exudes, but her meanness conceals more than it gives away.

From Los Angeles Times

To the millions who greedily gobbled up scuttlebutt about her legendary meanness over the years, this is far from a news flash.

From Salon

He added: “I never want people to think I have a hint of malice or meanness towards anyone, ever, that’s why I’m saying all this.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• avarice 
• greed 
• malice