Definition

1. Noun:
   • The quality of having regular, well-defined, and pleasing facial features, especially in a man: "Handsomeness" refers to the state or characteristic of being handsome, typically describing a man's attractive appearance that is often characterized by symmetry, strong features, and a pleasing overall look.
   • The quality of being impressive, substantial, or generous in size or amount: In a more figurative sense, "handsomeness" can describe the quality of something being considerable, ample, or generous, such as a sum of money or a reward.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • His handsomeness was often remarked upon by his friends. (The quality of his attractive appearance was frequently mentioned.)
  • The handsomeness of the donation surprised everyone at the charity. (The generous size of the donation was impressive.)
  • She admired not just his face, but his overall handsomeness and poise. (She appreciated his overall attractive quality and dignified manner.)

Advanced Usage

• "The handsomeness of the reward": This phrase uses the figurative sense to emphasize the substantial or generous nature of a prize or compensation.
  • The handsomeness of the reward motivated many to enter the competition. (The substantial size of the reward was a strong motivator.)

Variants and Related Words

• Handsome (adj): Good-looking, attractive (typically of a man); or generous and substantial in amount.

  • He is a handsome man. (He is a good-looking man.)
  • She received a handsome profit from the sale. (She received a large and pleasing profit.)

• Handsomely (adv): In a handsome manner; generously or attractively.

  • He was handsomely rewarded for his efforts. (He was generously rewarded.)

Synonyms

• Good looks: Attractive physical appearance.
• Attractiveness: The quality of being pleasing to look at.
• Comeliness: (Archaic or formal) Pleasing and wholesome appearance.
• Generosity: (For the figurative sense) The quality of being kind and plentiful.
• Ampleness: (For the figurative sense) The quality of being large or sufficient.

Related Phrases

(Note: "Handsomeness" itself is a noun and does not form phrasal verbs. Related phrases involve its adjective form, "handsome.") - "Handsome is as handsome does": (Proverb) A person's true worth is shown by their actions, not just their appearance. - He may look ordinary, but remember: handsome is as handsome does. (His character, shown through actions, is what truly matters.)

Noun

1. the quality of having regular well-defined features (especially of a man)