What does mightiness mean?
Mightiness is a formal and literary noun meaning greatness of power, strength, dignity, or majesty. It is chiefly associated with kings, gods, nature, and other subjects represented as powerful or sublime. Rather than functioning primarily as a neutral measurement of strength, the word gives its subject an elevated, dignified, or even theatrical character. For example, “the mightiness of God” emphasizes supreme power, while “the mightiness of the mountains” suggests overwhelming grandeur and permanence. The expression is uncommon in everyday conversation but can sound deliberately archaic, ceremonial, or ironic when applied to modern institutions or individuals. It derives from the adjective mighty and is related in form and meaning to might and almighty. Although a mechanical plural, mightinesses, is possible, the noun is normally treated as uncountable or as a mass noun in literary usage.
nounThe state or quality of being mighty; great power, strength, or majesty.
- Great or impressive power, strength, or majesty.
"The mightiness of the mountains inspired the poet to write of nature as an enduring sovereign."
"The mightiness of the ancient forest seemed to fill the valley."
"She spoke not of political power but of the quieter mightiness of endurance."
Rare; the noun is ordinarily used as an uncountable mass noun.
"The accounts describe the mightinesses of rival kingdoms in almost epic terms."
The word turns an adjective—mighty—into a grand, almost theatrical noun.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of mightiness
Mightiness was formed in English by adding the suffix -ness to mighty, which derives from Old English mihtig, meaning “powerful” or “having might or strength.” The underlying Old English noun miht denoted might, power, or strength. Related words include might and almighty, which belong to the same broad family of English forms expressing exceptional power.
How mightiness is actually used
Literary, formal, and often archaic in tone. It may be used seriously or ironically, especially when describing royal, religious, or natural grandeur.