[f. EARNEST a. + -NESS.] The state or quality of being earnest.

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1561.  T. Norton, Calvin’s Inst., IV. xx. 162. They must watch wt al care, earnestnesse, & diligence.

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1670.  Walton, Lives, III. 11. Never expressing an Earnestness…, but a Gravity sutable to the Aged.

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1779.  Johnson, Lett. (1788), II. ccvii. 55. Keep your mind quiet, do not think with earnestness even of your health.

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1833.  Lamb, Elia, 181. Hewing, sawing, every one with the might and earnestness of a Demiurgus.

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1845.  W. H. Kelly, trans. L. Blanc’s Hist. Ten Y., II. 598. The discussion began with warmth on one side, and grave earnestness on the other.

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1849.  Robertson, Serm., Ser. I. ii. (1863), 52. Earnestness; that is, sincerity of purpose.

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