From Middle English liknesse, from Old English līcness, ġelīcnes, from Proto-West Germanic *galīkanassī, equivalent to like + -ness. Cognate with West Frisian likenis, Dutch gelijkenis, German Low German Glieknis, German Gleichnis. The verb is derived from the noun. Compare also Old Norse líkneskja.
Modern English dictionary
Explore and search massive catalog of over 900,000 word meanings.
Word of the Day
Get a curated memorable word every day.
Challenge yourself
Level up your vocabulary by setting personal goals.