Definition of the word grittiness

The term "grittiness" originated in the mid-20th century in the United States. It is believed to have been influenced by the word "grit," which means courage, determination, and resilience. Initially, "grittiness" referred to the quality of being tough, resilient, and able to persevere through adversity. In the 1970s and 1980s, the term gained popularity in the context of American films and literature, particularly in the genres of neo-noir and crime fiction. It described the harsh, gritty realism of stories that often featured rough-around-the-edges characters and tough, unforgiving environments. Over time, "grittiness" expanded to encompass a broader range of connotations, including a sense of authenticity, raw emotion, and moral ambiguity. Today, it is often used to describe not only films and literature but also music, art, and other forms of creative expression that convey a sense of intensity and emotional depth.