Dictionary definitions
- Enter a word for the dictionary definition.
forgetfulness
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Forgetfulness \For*get"ful*ness\, n.
1. The quality of being forgetful; prononess to let slip from
the mind.
[1913 Webster]
2. Loss of remembrance or recollection; a ceasing to
remember; oblivion.
[1913 Webster]
A sweet forgetfulness of human care. --Pope.
[1913 Webster]
3. Failure to bear in mind; careless omission; inattention;
as, forgetfulness of duty.
Syn: Forgetfulnes, Oblivion.
Usage: Forgetfulness is Anglo-Saxon, and oblivion is Latin.
The former commonly has reference to persons, and
marks a state of mind; the latter commonly has
reference to things, and indicates a condition into
which they are sunk. We blame a man for his
forgetfulness; we speak of some old custom as buried
in oblivion. But this discrimination is not strictly
adhered to.
[1913 Webster]
