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swarthiness

American

[swawr-thee-nis, -thee-] / ˈswɔr ði nɪs, -θi- /

noun

darkness of the skin or complexion.

In numerous ancient Greek writings, the paleness and blondness of the northern people is contrasted with the swarthiness of the Egyptians and Ethiopians.

Etymology

Origin of swarthiness

swarthy ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

On a recent episode, Bim and Nichole talk about one Jason’s “rough-and-ready charms” and the other’s raspy-voiced swarthiness.

From Slate • Nov. 12, 2019

When Roger opened his eyes and saw him, a darker shadow crept beneath the swarthiness of his skin; but Jack noticed nothing.

From "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding

He had delicate features, redeemed from effeminacy by the swarthiness of his complexion, and his quick intensity of expression.

From North and South by Gaskell, Elizabeth Cleghorn

His eyes had receded into their sockets; his lips were stretched over his teeth; and the swarthiness of his skin had become sulphurous.

From Sacrifice by Whitman, Stephen French

He was young, powerfully built, wore a large mustache, and had a complexion of unusual swarthiness.

From Hand and Ring by Green, Anna Katharine

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023