betterness

English

Etymology

From Middle English betternes. Equivalent to better +‎ -ness.

Noun

betterness (countable and uncountable, plural betternesses)

1. (uncountable) The state or quality of being better; superiority.
   • 2022, NoViolet Bulawayo, Glory, Chatto & Windus, page 198:

     And how in the first place do you want to live in a better country when you yourself aren’t trying to be that betterness, when you’re willingly surrendering your right to shape that country?

2. (countable) The result or product of being better.
3. (minting) The amount by which a precious metal exceeds the standard of fineness.

Antonyms

• worseness