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Webster 1913 Edition


Greatness

Great′ness

,
Noun.
[AS.
greátnes
.]
1.
The state, condition, or quality of being great;
as,
greatness
of size,
greatness
of mind, power, etc.
2.
Pride; haughtiness.
[Obs.]
It is not of pride or
greatness
that he cometh not aboard your ships.
Bacon.

Webster 1828 Edition


Greatness

GREATNESS

,
Noun.
Largeness of bulk, dimensions, number or quantity; as the greatness of a mountain, of an edifice, of a multitude, or of a sum of money. With reference to solid bodies, however, we more generally use bulk, size, extent or magnitude than greatness; as the bulk or size of the body; the extent of the ocean; the magnitude of the sun or of the earth.
1.
Large amount; extent; as the greatness of a reward.
2.
High degree; as the greatness of virtue or vice.
3.
High rank or place; elevation; dignity; distinction; eminence; power; command.
4.
Swelling pride; affected state.
It is not of pride or greatness that he cometh not aboard your ships.
5.
Magnanimity; elevation of sentiment; nobleness; as greatness of mind.
Virtue is the only solid basis of greatness.
6.
Strength or extent of intellectual faculties; as the greatness of genius.
7.
Large extent or variety; as the greatness of a man's acquisitions.
8.
Grandeur; pomp; magnificence.
Greatness with Timon dwells in such a draught,
As brings all Brobdignag before your thought.
9.
Force; intensity; as the greatness of sound, of passion, heat, &c.

Definition 2024


greatness

greatness

English

Noun

greatness (countable and uncountable, plural greatnesses)

  1. The state, condition, or quality of being great
    Due to the greatness of his size, he was an effective bodyguard.
    greatness of mind
    • c. 1600, William Shakespeare, Twelfth Night ACt 3 Scene 4
      Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon 'em.
    • 2012 June 29, Kevin Mitchell, “Roger Federer back from Wimbledon 2012 brink to beat Julien Benneteau”, in the Guardian:
      He showed his greatness when it mattered, but his occasional weakness too. All of a sudden there is doubt about his chances, after a seamless start. He has a lot to prove now, even if he will be buoyed by his effort.
  2. (obsolete): Pride; haughtiness.

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