different between solemnity vs formality

English

Etymology

solemn +? -ity, from Middle English solemnity (“observance of formality and ceremony”), frequently in the phrases in solemnity, with solemnity, which from Old French solemnite, from Latin sollemnit?s, from sollemnis. (Compare solemn.)

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /s??l?mn?ti/
• Hyphenation: so?lem?ni?ty

Noun

solemnity (countable and uncountable, plural solemnities)

1. The quality of being deeply serious and sober or solemn.

   the solemnity of a funeral

   • The stateliness and gravity of the Spaniards shows itself in the solemnity of their language.

   • 1754, Jonathan Edwards, An Inquiry into the Modern Prevailing Notions Respecting that Freedom of the Will which is supposed to be Essential to Moral Agency

     These promises were often made with great solemnity and confirmed with an oath.

2. An instance or example of solemn behavior; a rite or ceremony performed with reverence.
   • April 17, 1707, Francis Atterbury, a sermon

     The forms and solemnities of the last judgment.

3. (Catholicism) A feast day of the highest rank celebrating a mystery of faith such as the Trinity, an event in the life of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, or another important saint.
4. (law) A solemn or formal observance; proceeding according to due form; the formality which is necessary to render a thing done valid.
5. (obsolete) A celebration or festivity.

Translations

References

Anagrams

• mylonites

English

Etymology

From Middle French formalité. equivalent to formal +? -ity.

Pronunciation

• Rhymes: -æl?ti

Noun

formality (countable and uncountable, plural formalities)

1. (uncountable) The state of being formal.
2. Something said or done as a matter of form.
3. A customary ritual without new or unique meaning.
4. (countable) A specific requirement for obtaining a legal status, conducting a transaction, etc.

Translations

Further reading

• formality in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam, 1913.
• formality in The Century Dictionary, New York, N.Y.: The Century Co., 1911.