Rudenesses
Part of speech: noun
Definitions
- A lack of refinement or courtesy demonstrated through impolite behavior or remarks; instances of offensiveness that disrupt social norms; the quality of being disrespectful or ill-mannered in interactions with others
- Actions or statements that exhibit a breach of etiquette or social decorum, often causing discomfort or offense; multiple occurrences of rudeness that may manifest in various contexts; the state of being uncivil or impolite toward others
- The behavior characterized by a disregard for others' feelings or social expectations, often leading to negative reactions; a series of actions marked by a lack of consideration or courtesy; manifestations of disrespect that can impact relationships and social dynamics
Etymology: "Rudenesses" is simply the plural of "rudeness," so it counts separate instances of uncivil or impolite behaviour rather than the quality itself. The plural is formed by adding "-es" to the singular, following the usual pattern for nouns ending in "-ss." The singular "rudeness" comes from Middle English "rudenesse," built from the adjective "rude" and the suffix "-ness," which turns an adjective into a noun for a quality or state. Middle English "rude" carried the sense of coarse, unrefined or ordinary, and "rudenesse" thus named the condition of lacking polish, a meaning that shifted over time toward behaviour that breaks social manners.