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

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

Not different in how it was done or the solemnity of the moment as MPs fell quiet and listened respectfully.

From BBC

The solemnity echoing the national mood as flags fly at half-mast.

From BBC

Some were passed along by longtime Angelenos with the solemnity of handing down a family heirloom.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• earnestness 
• gravity 
• seriousness