gravitas

[grav-i-tahs, ‑-tas]

noun

1. seriousness or sobriety, as of conduct or speech.

gravitas

/ ˈɡrævɪˌtæs /

noun

1. seriousness, solemnity, or importance

Word History and Origins

Origin of gravitas¹

First recorded in 1920–25; from Latin gravitās; gravity

Word History and Origins

Origin of gravitas¹

C20: from Latin gravitās weight, from gravis heavy

Example Sentences

One could say the painting had gravitas, but not gloom.

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“I’m sure they were concerned about disrupting the brand awareness they’ve built and losing the legitimacy and gravitas of the NBC name,” Doughty said.

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After heading a commission to select candidates to be George W. Bush’s running mate, Cheney selected himself, which commentators noted lent gravitas to the Texas governor, who lacked experience on the national and international levels.

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He brought to the ticket an element of maturity and Washington gravitas that the inexperienced Bush did not possess.

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By contrast, Ms. Lloyd brings a weighty, wary gravitas to Celeste, the group’s only black member, who often radiates a mild prickliness.

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Related Words

• dignity 
• gravity 
• sobriety