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ess

noun \ ˈes \
|Updated on: 18 Jun 2018

Definition of ess

1 : the letter s
2 : something resembling the letter S in shape; especially : an S-shaped curve in a road

Recent Examples of ess from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'ess.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of ess

1540

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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-ess

noun suffix

Definition of -ess

: female
  • giantess

Origin and Etymology of -ess

Middle English -esse, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin -issa, from Greek

ESS Defined for Kids

-ess

noun suffix \ əs \

Definition of -ess for Students

: female
  • goddess

Learn More about ess

  1. See words that rhyme with ess

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