gravitas

American  

[grav-i-tahs, ‑-tas] / ˈgræv ɪˌtɑs, ‑ˌtæs /

noun

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

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gravitas British  

/ ˈɡrævɪˌtæs /

noun

1. seriousness, solemnity, or importance

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Etymology

Origin of gravitas

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

Example Sentences

The deal shows how the media sector, while fraught with changes in technology and customer habits, continues to attract trophy hunters who want the clout and gravitas of informing the world.

From The Wall Street Journal

If things take a turn for the worse, it is doubtful he has the wisdom and gravitas to handle it.

From Salon

Lacking Ayatollah Khomeini’s gravitas, Khamenei built his power by balancing Iran’s various pillars of authority.

From The Wall Street Journal

It’s unclear if any of the current leaders would possess the gravitas of Oseguera, who wielded unquestioned authority even as his health deteriorated and he was forced to live on the run.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s a certain tone in my voice, a register he didn’t want me to use, a register I often use for pathos or gravitas.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• dignity
• gravity
• sobriety