fairness

noun

fair·​ness ˈfer-nəs How to pronounce fairness (audio)
Synonyms of fairness
: the quality or state of being fair
especially : fair or impartial treatment : lack of favoritism toward one side or another
This is the real Ponzi scheme that does injury to the American promise of fairnessJesse Jackson
The rules reflect the principles of procedural due process and fundamental fairness prescribed by the Constitution … James O. Freedman
… partisan gerrymandering has got so out of hand that it was up to the courts to restore a measure of fairness. Jeffrey Toobin
We are living in the harsh world invented by a handful of corporate raiders whose values are completely foreign to the fairness and moderation that had so long served as the proper foundation of American success and the American dream. Doris Haddock
He did poorly, but in (all) fairness [=to be fair to him], he was tired.

Examples of fairness in a Sentence

a city of incomparable fairness, Venice has enchanted travelers for centuries fairness was certainly uppermost in the elderly woman's mind as she made arrangements for dividing the family heirlooms among her many grandchildren
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This landmark victory will give all states, not just West Virginia, the clarity and confidence to ensure fairness and safety for female athletes today and for generations to come. Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 30 June 2026 The big market gains have contributed to the perception of a lack of equity and fairness in the economy, sparking outrage among many middle- and low-income Americans. David Goldman, CNN Money, 29 June 2026 To ensure the fairness and credibility of our readers’ poll, any votes originating from the same IP address that exceed 20 submissions will be excluded from the final tally. Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 29 June 2026 Through the surveys, focus groups and town halls, residents consistently evaluated policy choices with fairness, accountability and visible impact front and center. Karen Freeman-Wilson, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for fairness

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fairness was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Fairness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fairness. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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