solemnity

noun

so·​lem·​ni·​ty sə-ˈlem-nə-tē 

plural solemnities

1

: formal or ceremonious observance of an occasion or event

2

: a solemn event or occasion

3

: a solemn condition or quality

the solemnity of his words

Synonyms

• intentness
• gravity
• earnestness
• solemnness
• seriousness

Examples of solemnity in a Sentence

the solemnity of the occasion

Her voice conveyed the solemnity of the passage.

The visiting statesman was welcomed with appropriate solemnity.

Elaborate solemnities marked the 100th anniversary of the event.

Recent Examples on the Web

Any solemnity that might be engendered by the president accompanied by an official entourage to his private residence near the Spanish Steps is amusingly offset by the robot law enforcement dog leading the way. —David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 27 Aug. 2025

Dressed in traditional wear and moving with a studied solemnity, the men remove evidence of Europe from the office. —Lovia Gyarkye, IndieWire, 19 Aug. 2025

No other solemnity is required by law; no other act is to be performed on the part of government. —Liz Tracey, JSTOR Daily, 29 July 2025

Churches may also hold special services, dim the lights, and muffle bells to reflect the day’s solemnity. —Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for solemnity

• indemnity