What does spiritualness mean?
Spiritualness is a noun meaning the quality or condition of being spiritual. It can describe a person's devotion, sensitivity to spiritual or transcendent matters, awareness of a wider moral or metaphysical reality, or the character of an experience, place, or artistic work. The word is uncommon and tends to appear in reflective, literary, religious, or evaluative contexts. It is related to spirituality, but the distinction is subtle: spirituality commonly refers to beliefs, practices, traditions, or a broader spiritual way of life, while spiritualness more often denotes the quality of being spiritual. For example, a person's spiritualness might be evident in their compassion and sense of connection, whereas their spirituality might involve prayer, meditation, worship, or adherence to a particular philosophy. Because spiritualness can sound abstract or slightly unusual, writers may often prefer the more familiar terms spirituality, devoutness, or religiousness when those convey the intended meaning more precisely.
nounThe quality or state of being spiritual, especially in relation to spiritual beliefs, awareness, or experience. The word is relatively uncommon and is often used in reflective or evaluative contexts.
- The quality or condition of being spiritual, especially spiritually aware, devout, or sensitive to transcendent meaning.
"Her contemplative art expresses a deep spiritualness that connects nature, memory, and human experience."
"The quiet ceremony conveyed a profound spiritualness."
"Her spiritualness allowed her to find meaning in ordinary moments."
The regular plural is rarely needed because the singular noun is itself uncommon and is usually used in abstract or collective senses.
"The sculptures are notable for the varied spiritualness they convey."
Spiritualness names the atmosphere of a person or experience; spirituality more often names the beliefs and practices that surround it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spiritualness come from?
Spiritualness was formed in English by adding the suffix -ness to spiritual, which creates a noun denoting a quality or state. Spiritual ultimately comes through Old French from Latin spiritualis, a derivative of spiritus, meaning breath, spirit, or soul, which is also the source of English spirit.
How spiritualness is actually used
This is a relatively uncommon noun and may sound formal, reflective, or slightly old-fashioned. It emphasizes a quality rather than a body of beliefs or religious practices.
Easily confused with spiritualness
Spirituality commonly refers to spiritual beliefs, practices, or a way of life, whereas spiritualness focuses more on the quality of being a spiritual person.