solemnity

[suh-lem-ni-tee]

noun

plural

solemnities 

1. the state or character of being solemn; earnestness; gravity; impressiveness.

   the solemnity of a state funeral.

2. Often solemnities. a solemn observance, ceremonial proceeding, or special formality.

   the solemnities of Easter.

3. Law.,  a formality that renders an act or document valid.

solemnity

/ səˈlɛmnɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being solemn

2. (often plural) solemn ceremony, observance, celebration, etc

3. law a formality necessary to validate a deed, act, contract, etc

Other Word Forms

• oversolemnity noun
• semisolemnity noun
• supersolemnity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of solemnity¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English solempnete, from Old French, from Latin sollemnitās; equivalent to solemn + -ity

Example Sentences

It’s clearly a passion project, and like many passion projects, it can go overboard at times, grow overstuffed, not to say oversolemn — though solemnity, to be sure, is appropriate to the history.

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"There was a calmness, a bit of solemnity," he continued, adding that everyone he spoke to when in it was "peaceful and just wanting to do this well".

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Not different in how it was done or the solemnity of the moment as MPs fell quiet and listened respectfully.

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The solemnity echoing the national mood as flags fly at half-mast.

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Some were passed along by longtime Angelenos with the solemnity of handing down a family heirloom.

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Related Words

• earnestness 
• gravity 
• seriousness