Middle English

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Alternative forms

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Etymology

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Inherited from Old English stedefæstnes; equivalent to stedefast +‎ -nesse.

Pronunciation

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  • IPA(key): /ˈstɛːd(ə)ˌfastnɛs(ə)/, /ˈstɛd(ə)ˌfastnɛs(ə)/, /ˈstid-/

Noun

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stedefastnesse (uncountable)

  1. Steadfastness, conviction; the state of lacking doubt.
  2. Immutableness, inalterability; the state of being unalterable.
  3. Perdurance; continual existence or endurance.
  4. Bravery, might, durability; capacity to resist.
  5. (rare) Security or that which provides it; a foundation.
  6. (rare) Marital loyalty or faithfulness.

Descendants

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  • English: steadfastness
  • Middle Scots: steidfastnes

References

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