gutsiness

the word 'gutsiness' is a modern english formation built upon the adjective 'gutsy'. 'gutsy' itself derives from the plural noun 'guts', which in english slang came to mean 'courage or determination', a metaphorical extension from its literal meaning of 'entrails or bowels'. this metaphorical use, equating inner organs with inner strength or spirit, has parallels in many languages. the suffix '-ness', of germanic origin, is a highly productive suffix in english used to form abstract nouns denoting a state or quality. thus, 'gutsiness' literally translates to 'the state or quality of having guts (courage)'.

Structure: gutsy (courageous) + ness (noun suffix) gutsy (origin: english, functional role: adjective root meaning courage or spirit) + ness (origin: old english, functional role: noun-forming suffix indicating a state or quality)