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Definition of elusiveness

elusiveness

/ɪˈluː.sɪv.nəs/
e · lu · sive · ness
Adverb:elusively
•
Adjective:elusive
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elusiveness Lexical Profile

elusiveness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality of being difficult to find, catch, or achieve.

Example

"The snow leopard is famous for its elusiveness in the rugged mountain terrain."

2

The quality of being difficult to define, comprehend, or remember clearly.

Example

"Philosophers have long debated the elusiveness of human consciousness."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for elusiveness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for elusiveness

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'elusiveness' (the quality of being hard to find, catch, or pin down) with 'illusiveness' (the quality of being deceptive or based on an illusion) or 'allusiveness' (the use of indirect references).

• Rhymes for elusiveness

• Nearby Words

elude
elusive
elusively
elusiveness
elven
elver
elvira

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 18th century from the adjective 'elusive' plus the suffix '-ness', ultimately tracing back to the Latin verb 'eludere' (to evade or mock), from 'ex-' (out) and 'ludere' (to play).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Elusiveness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/elusiveness
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