archness

[ ahrch-nis ]

noun

1. roguishness; sauciness.

Word History and Origins

Origin of archness¹

First recorded in 1700–10; arch ² + -ness

Example Sentences

As a visual storyteller, Jefferson is still finding his feet, though there is wit and archness in certain compositions and editing choices.

From Los Angeles Times

She is played with archness and authority and hip-swinging sass, shot through with vulnerability, by Clare Perkins, who has traded in those red stockings for a cold-shoulder dress and some very high heels.

From New York Times

Now, they are buzzing with memes, videos and messages of congratulation, but also a strain of sceptical archness.

From BBC

Throughout “Assembly,” Newsome teases the lines between sincerity, archness and coded critique.

From New York Times

It’s that when she focuses instead on her own writing, and shifts away some from straight-on modern jazz, she also softens the archness and the neatness of her delivery.

From New York Times