solemnity

American  

[suh-lem-ni-tee] / səˈlɛm nɪ ti /

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.

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solemnity British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• oversolemnity noun
• semisolemnity noun
• supersolemnity noun

Etymology

Origin of solemnity

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.

From BBC

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.

From BBC

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.

From The Wall Street Journal

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.

From Los Angeles Times

"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".

From BBC

Related Words

• earnestness
• gravity
• seriousness