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Showing results for earnestness. Search instead for ernestines.
Definitions

earnestness

[ur-nist-nis] / ˈɜr nɪst nɪs /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Like every other detail here, that implicit complaint is dusty and ossified, and Mr. Williamson’s formerly wised-up dialogue has been supplanted by a grinding earnestness, with everyone constantly asking about one another’s feelings.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

Hence, this nimble, propulsive movie, given a loose intimacy by Juan Sarmiento’s 16mm cinematography, proves to be oddly heartfelt when seemingly most cruel about Oscar’s hapless earnestness.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 30, 2026

Having lost his right arm, he is told, in all earnestness, “There are people who, funnily enough, would give their right arm to be able to do what you do.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 24, 2025

Over time, however, they found that their partner became more caring when they maintained key traits like earnestness and an affinity for art.

From Slate • Sep. 25, 2025

He came back to sit at the table, searching my face with an eight-year-old’s earnestness.

From "Hattie Big Sky" by Kirby Larson




Vocabulary lists containing earnestness