formality

American  

[fawr-mal-i-tee] / fɔrˈmæl ɪ ti /

noun

plural

formalities

1. condition or quality of being formal; accordance with required or traditional rules, procedures, etc.; conventionality.

2. rigorously methodical character.

3. strict adherence to established rules and procedures; rigidity.

4. observance of form or ceremony.

5. marked or excessive ceremoniousness.

6. an established order or method of proceeding.

   the formalities of judicial process.

7. a formal act or observance.

   Synonyms:

   ceremony, ritual, rite

8. something done merely or mainly for form's sake; a requirement of custom or etiquette.

   the formality of a thank-you note.

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formality British  

/ fɔːˈmælɪtɪ /

noun

1. a requirement of rule, custom, etiquette, etc

2. the condition or quality of being formal or conventional

3. strict or excessive observance of form, ceremony, etc

4. an established, proper, or conventional method, act, or procedure

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Etymology

Origin of formality

From the Latin word fōrmālitās, dating back to 1525–35. See formal ¹, -ity

Example Sentences

He described a vote to be held in the House on Tuesday that would approve a Senate-backed deal to reopen the government as little more than a "formality."

From Barron's

"It's just an empty formality that will disappear."

From Barron's

The two players also noticeably kept apart for the pre-match formalities and photos.

From Barron's

Analysts have long viewed the election as a formality.

From Barron's

Once the necessary paperwork is signed off, Guehi is expected to travel north in the next 72 hours to complete the formalities.

From BBC

Related Words

• procedure
• red tape
• rite
• ritual