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

"I now recognize that this could affect the integrity and solemnity of the proceedings," Judge Thornhill wrote in a letter dated 12 November to the Missouri Supreme Court.

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Now, we go on remembering vicariously, performing rituals of solemnity and sorrow to honour those who died, but the meaning of those rituals have changed over the years.

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The early scenes have a certain ponderous solemnity as two hunter-warrior-predator brothers from the Yautja race fight for honor with weapons that combine the clank of all things medieval with modern pizzazz.

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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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Related Words

• earnestness 
• gravity 
• seriousness