† ˈderfness Obs.
[f. derf a. + -ness. Sense 1 appears to be related to derf n.]
1. Trouble, hardship; = derf n.
| c 1175 Lamb. Hom. 21 Þes þu hefdest mare deruenesse on þisse liue of þine licome, þes þu scoldest hersumian þe bet þine leofe drihten. a 1300 Cursor M. 3996 (Cott.) Man þat þou will help in nede Thar him neuer na derfnes drede. |
2. Boldness, audacity.
| c 1400 Destr. Troy 5110 He, þat warpes thies wordes in his wild foly, Shuld degh, for his derfenes. |