OTHERNESS Synonyms: 69 Similar and Opposite Words

otherness

noun

ˈə-t͟hər-nəs

Definition of otherness

as in distinctiveness

the quality or state of being different from an early age he could sense that there was an otherness about him—he was somehow different from the other kids

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of otherness Indeed, in Fennell’s movie, Heathcliff’s race is not explicitly stated, and his otherness seems to center more around class, with emphasis placed on the fact that he was found on the streets of Liverpool and isn’t able to read or write. — Ellise Shafer, Variety, 13 Feb. 2026 Heathcliff’s racial ambiguity — so central to the novel’s violence and otherness — is feebly erased. — Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 11 Feb. 2026 There’s a lot of ways to tackle otherness and discrimination. — Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 10 Jan. 2026 While Monster luxuriated in Gein’s unraveling mind, showcasing his otherness with sequences of Gein dancing with spinning chainsaws and posing in his skin suit, Devil in Disguise is all the more effective for emphasizing Gacy’s ability to go unnoticed. — Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for otherness

Recent Examples of Synonyms for otherness

Noun

In a portfolio of consumer brands, each brand's value lies substantially in its distinctiveness.

— Gustaf Lundberg Toresson, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026
Ultimately, though, distinctiveness is an asset for an action star.

— Judy Berman, Time, 15 July 2026

Definition of distinctiveness

Noun

How can the sense of an absolute union of all matter be reconciled with the endless multiplicity and distinctness of it?

— Christian Wiman, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025
However, a few hours with Air Riders reveals the nuance and depth of its gameplay, the distinctness of this flavor of racing game and its sensory, chaotic, and strategic appeal.

— Ryan Gaur, Rolling Stone, 19 Nov. 2025

Definition of distinctness

Noun

Previous studies also have found differences between passive sedentary behaviors, such as television watching, and more mentally active ones, including solving puzzles and being mentally engaged during work.

— Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 8 Aug. 2026
Earlier this week, former GOP Senator Jeff Flake, of Arizona, endorsed Ossoff saying despite their policy differences, Flake applauds Ossoff's character and his commitment to doing the job.

— Irene Wright, USA Today, 7 Aug. 2026

Definition of difference

Noun

The Caribbean is a region almost purpose-built for cruising—closely set islands that offer immense diversity in culture and history, each with their own siren lure.

— Scott Laird, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Aug. 2026
English and Swahili are widely used in worship, alongside numerous indigenous languages, reflecting the linguistic and cultural diversity of the church’s membership.

— Stephanie TriplettAll, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Aug. 2026

Definition of diversity

Noun

The recent disclosures illustrate how quickly those distinctions can become politically significant.

— Barnini Chakraborty, The Washington Examiner, 6 Aug. 2026
Canyon Crest Academy La Jolla comes off its first San Diego Section Open Division championship, while Cathedral Catholic holds the distinction of becoming the first San Diego Section school to reach the Southern California Regional Division 1 final.

— Glae Thien, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Aug. 2026

Definition of distinction

Noun

By contrast, collectivist societies focus more on social harmony and prioritise the group over individual goals, with decisions made based on what is best for the wider community.

— Mark Carey, New York Times, 9 Aug. 2026
By contrast, the defense will point to the parts of the book that are provably false, in an attempt to discredit it, explained David Roger, the former Clark County, Nevada, district attorney.

— Eric Levenson, CNN Money, 9 Aug. 2026