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.

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of formality

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

Explanation

A formality is something that follows traditional rules. Even though you knew your request for time off at work would be approved, you still went through the formality of filling out all the required paperwork. Formality also means to align with customs or etiquette. In this way, a formality is often something that's more symbolic than necessary. For example, when a big group sits down to eat dinner together, no one starts eating until everyone is served. That formality of dining etiquette is a sign of good manners and consideration for others. If you're British, a formality of your culture is to curtsy or bow when you meet the Queen.

Example Sentences

Havens and Elayyne started planning the wedding, waiting for what they thought would just be a formality: the signature of the governor of Washington state.

From Slate • May 2, 2026

After the formality and diplomatic challenges of Washington DC, this was an opportunity to see a more relaxed side of the US, with bluegrass music and country rock blasting around the town square.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

Diversification isn’t a formality: Since no one knows the winners across the AI ecosystem, your AI exposure should be broad, rather than centered on one or two hotshots.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 2026

“None of our friends and family ever walk through our front door,” said James, so they decided to do away with the formality.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

Unlike the previous night, when he’d sprawled facedown on the bed, shirtless and unself-conscious, without even tying the drawstring of his breeches, tonight he was prey to a peculiar formality.

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor

Related Words

• procedure
• red tape
• rite
• ritual