rhizoverbBeta
DictionarysolemnityDignified seriousness
noun

solemnity

suh-LEM-nuh-tee/səˈlemnəti/

A dignified and serious ceremonial manner.

The gathering's respectful silence and dignified postures express solemnity.

A quiet formal gathering stands in respectful silence, restrained dignified poses and varied ages.
Etymology
solemnLatinformal, ceremonial
+ityLatinstate or quality

The ceremonial base and quality-forming ending now name a serious, dignified manner. Earlier, solemnity named a religious rite or formal observance; it later came to name the state of being solemn.

In context

Funeral Channel Network36:24
making sure the solemnity and the dignity aren't lost in translation to a screen. >> Exactly.
Why Taps Is Played At A Military Funeral

More examples

  • A moment of silence adds solemnity to the memorial service.
  • She accepts the award with quiet solemnity.
  • The children's laughter briefly breaks the solemnity of the ceremony.

Forms

solemnity

solemn adjective — Serious and dignified in manner or appearance.

solemnly adverb — In a serious and dignified manner.

Similar words

gravity
Emphasizes seriousness in weighty situations, without suggesting ceremony.
dignity
Emphasizes composed, worthy behavior rather than ceremonial seriousness.
formality
Emphasizes established rules and conventions rather than serious feeling.