swarthiness

American  

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

noun

1. 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.

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Etymology

Origin of swarthiness

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

Example Sentences

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

His face was dark almost to swarthiness and his cheeks and chin were smoothly shaven.

From Golden Days for Boys and Girls, Vol. XIII, Nov. 28, 1891 by Elverson, James

Your knowledge of the East, your acquaintance with Yiddish, and Syrian and Hebrew, the very swarthiness of your skin, and blackness of your hair, dear boy, may all serve you in good stead.

From The Mark of the Beast by Watson, Sidney

A few streaks of branching red mingled with a swarthiness of complexion, that was rendered more conspicuous by the outline of unsullied white, which nearly surrounded his prominent features.

From The Pilot by Cooper, James Fenimore