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Definition of fretfulness

fretfulness

/ˈfrɛt.fəl.nəs/
fret · ful · ness
Adverb:fretfully
•
Adjective:fretful
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fretfulness Lexical Profile

fretfulness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The state or quality of being irritable, restless, discontented, or visibly distressed by minor worries or discomfort.

Example

"The infant's sudden fretfulness was the first sign of an ear infection."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for fretfulness

• Nearby Words

fretboard
fretful
fretfully
fretfulness
fretless
friar
friarbird

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 17th century from 'fretful' + '-ness'. The root 'fret' comes from Old English 'fretan' (to devour or gnaw away), which figuratively came to mean 'consuming oneself with worry or irritation'.

Cite this Entry

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