swarthiness
(ˈswɔːðɪnɪs, -θ-)
[f. as prec. + -ness.]
The quality of being swarthy; duskiness; darkness of colour or complexion.
| 1577 B. Googe Heresbach's Husb. ii. (1586) 67 b, The ripenesse whereof is deemed by the swarthinesse and the softnesse of the berrie. 1628 Feltham Resolves ii. [i.] xxxvi. 111 It thickens the complexion, and dyes it into an vnpleasing swarthinesse. 1668 Wilkins Real Char. ii. viii. 224 Yellowness and Swarthiness of colour, accompanied with faintness. 1758 Descr. Thames 179 The Fat is thought excellent against Redness, or Swarthiness. 1823 Scott Quentin D. v, The complexion of the face..in its ordinary state of weather-beaten and sunburnt swarthiness. 1884 Jefferies in Pall Mall Gaz. 8 Aug. 4/2 A clear swarthiness—a translucent swarthiness—clear as the most delicate white. |