fairness

[ fair-nis ]

noun

1. the state, condition, or quality of being fair, or free from bias or injustice; evenhandedness:

   I have to admit, in all fairness, that she would only be paid for part of the work.

2. the quality of being light of hair or complexion:

   Due to the fairness of her skin, she had to wear extra sunscreen even in the winter.

   One of the traits that he got from his father was the fairness of his hair.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fairness¹

fair ¹ + -ness

Example Sentences

Today's vote was seen as a landmark test of its ability to uphold rules that it claims are crucial in maintaining competitive balance and fairness, by ensuring commercial deals that clubs agree with companies linked to their owners represent fair market value and are not artificially inflated.

From BBC

“In fairness, the audit report does not suggest it is not fit for purpose… what it suggests is that we look at alternative models,” O’Dowd said.

From BBC

Ms Killean added: "Police need to take a human rights-based approach which treats children with care, sensitivity, fairness, and respect."

From BBC

The outcome was in part a reflection of the overall swing to the right nationwide, he said, and also about a sense of “fairness.”

From Los Angeles Times

Secondly, contested notions of fairness are so often central to the most contentious political arguments, and this one is no different.

From BBC

Related Words

• candor
• civility
• decency
• decorum
• equity
• honesty
• humanity
• impartiality
• integrity
• legitimacy
• moderation
• propriety
• rationality
• righteousness
• suitability
• tolerance
• truth
• veracity