solemnity

/sə'lemniti/

Thân thiện

The judge's face held a solemnity that quieted the entire courtroom.

Definition

Noun: 1. The quality or state of being deeply serious, earnest, and formal: It refers to a profound gravity or dignity in manner, tone, or atmosphere, often associated with important, sacred, or ceremonial occasions. 2. (Often plural: solemnities) A formal, dignified rite or ceremony: A specific ritual or observance conducted with gravity.

Usage

Solemnity describes a serious and formal quality. It is most commonly used as an uncountable noun (e.g., "the solemnity of the occasion"). The plural form solemnities refers to the specific ceremonies or rituals themselves.

Examples

• The solemnity of the memorial service was palpable, with everyone speaking in hushed tones.
• The judge spoke with great solemnity when delivering the verdict.
• The religious solemnities of the holiday were observed by the entire community.
• Despite the festive decorations, an underlying solemnity marked the anniversary of the founder's passing.

Advanced Usage

• "With due solemnity": Carrying out an action with the appropriate level of seriousness and respect it deserves.
  • The treaty was signed with due solemnity by both heads of state.
• "A breach of solemnity": An action or remark that disrupts the serious and formal atmosphere.
  • His casual joke was seen as a breach of solemnity during the oath-taking ceremony.

Variants and Related Words

• Solemn (adjective): Deeply serious, formal, and earnest.
  • They made a solemn promise.
• Solemnize (verb): To perform or observe with formal rites or ceremonies.
  • The priest will solemnize their marriage.
• Solemnization (noun): The act of solemnizing.

Synonyms

• Gravity
• Seriousness
• Earnestness
• Sobriety
• Formality
• Dignity

Antonyms

• Frivolity
• Levity
• Lightheartedness
• Informality

Học thuật

Noun

1. a solemn and dignified feeling
2. a trait of dignified seriousness

Từ đồng nghĩa

• gravity
• sedateness
• staidness
• solemness