Main Entry: ¹for·mal

Pronunciation: \ˈfȯr-məl\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English, from Latin formalis, from forma

Date: 14th century

1 a : belonging to or constituting the form or essence of a thing <formal cause> b : relating to or involving the outward form, structure, relationships, or arrangement of elements rather than content <formal logic> <a formal style of painting> <a formal approach to comparative linguistics>
2 a : following or according with established form, custom, or rule <lacked formal schooling> <a formal dinner party> <formal attire> b : done in due or lawful form <a formal contract> <received formal recognition>
3 a : characterized by punctilious respect for form : methodical <very formal in all his dealings> b : rigidly ceremonious : prim
4 : having the appearance without the substance <formal Christians who go to church only at Easter>

synonyms see ceremonial

— for·mal·ly \-mə-lē\ adverb

— for·mal·ness noun