Solemnity

Origin

Middle English solemnity ("observance of formality and ceremony"), frequently in the phrases in solemnity, with solemnity, which from Old French solemnite, from Latin sollemnitās, from sollemnis. (Compare solemn.)

NOAD 2005

Full definition of solemnity

Noun

1. The quality of being deeply serious and sober or solemn.the solemnity of a funeral
• AddisonThe stateliness and gravity of the Spaniards shows itself in the solemnity of their language.
• J. EdwardsThese 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.
• Alexander PopeGreat was the cause; our old solemnities
  From no blind zeal or fond tradition rise,
  But saved from death, our Argives yearly pay
  These grateful honours to the god of day.
• AtterburyThe forms and solemnities of the last judgment.
3. (legal) A solemn or formal observance; proceeding according to due form; the formality which is necessary to render a thing done valid.

Anagrams

• mylonites