shortness
UK[ˈʃɔːtnəs]US[ˈʃɔːrtnəs]
n
the quality or state of being short in length, duration, or measure.
n
the quality of being abrupt or curt in manner.
n
an inability to take in sufficient air; breathlessness.
Morpheme Breakdown
short
ness
short
not long
ness
state or quality
Etymology
the word 'shortness' is a transparent english formation from its germanic root. the adjective 'short' originates from proto-germanic skurtaz, which itself may derive from the proto-indo-european root (s)ker-, meaning 'to cut', implying something cut off and therefore brief or not long. the suffix '-ness' is a prolific english noun-forming element from old english, used to convert adjectives into abstract nouns denoting a state or quality. thus, 'shortness' literally means 'the state of being short', a meaning that has expanded from physical length to encompass duration, supply, and even temperament.
Analysis
Structure: short (not long) + ness (state or quality)
short (from old english 'sceort', of germanic origin, meaning not long). ness (from old english '-nes', a suffix forming abstract nouns of state or quality).
Examples
the shortness of the days in winter is noticeable.
he apologized for the shortness of his reply.
climbing the stairs caused a sudden shortness of breath.