Meaning & Definition of Meanness in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: The state or quality of being mean; unkindness or cruelty.

  Example Sentence: Her meanness was evident in the way she treated her colleagues.

• Definition: A lack of generosity; stinginess.

  Example Sentence: His meanness prevented him from sharing his wealth with those in need.

• Definition: A low or inferior quality.

  Example Sentence: The meanness of the materials used in the construction was obvious.

• Definition: A disposition to be unkind or unfair.

  Example Sentence: The meanness in his remarks left everyone feeling uncomfortable.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English 'menenes', from the root of 'mean', related to Old English 'gemæne' meaning 'common'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• a mean streak: A tendency to act in a cruel or unfair manner.
• mean-spirited: Characterized by a lack of kindness or compassion.
• mean as a snake: Very unkind or cruel.

Translations

• Spanish: maldad

• French: méchanceté

• German: Gemeinheit

• Russian: подлость

Related Words

• mean: Unkind, spiteful, or selfish.

• malice: The intention or desire to do evil or cause injury.

• stingy: Unwilling to share or spend money; miserly.

Slang Meanings of meanness

• Meaning: Mean as dirt

  Example Sentence: He's as mean as dirt; he never shares anything.

• Meaning: Cold-hearted

  Example Sentence: Don’t be so cold-hearted; that’s just mean.