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Definition of somberness

somberness

/ˈsɑːm.bɚ.nəs/
(UK: sombreness)
som · ber · ness
Adverb:somberly
•
Adjective:somber
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somberness Lexical Profile

somberness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

American A state or quality of grave seriousness, solemnity, or melancholy.

Example

"A quiet somberness settled over the courtroom as the jury prepared to deliver its verdict."

2

American The quality of being dark, dim, shadow-filled, or dull in color or lighting.

Example

"The heavy velvet drapes added to the somberness of the old library."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Spelled 'somberness' in American English and 'sombreness' in British English.

• Nearby Words

somalian
somber
somberly
somberness
sombrero
some
somebody

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective 'somber' and the native suffix '-ness'; 'somber' derives from French 'sombre' (dark, gloomy), ultimately from Late Latin 'subumbrare' (to cast in shadow), from Latin 'sub-' (under) and 'umbra' (shade, shadow).

Cite this Entry

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