solemnity

noun

so·lem·ni·ty | \ sə-ˈlem-nə-tē

plural solemnities

Definition of solemnity

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 & Antonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about solemnity

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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

Bundy resembles, of all people, empath Bill Clinton in his disarming emotional affect and ability to imbue otherwise-dry ideas with solemnity and gravitas, McCann notes. — Stephen Phillips | For The Oregonian/oregonlive, oregonlive.com, "‘Shadowlands’ takes a broad view of the Malheur wildlife refuge occupation as the first upheaval in a tumultuous year," 2 July 2019 There was solemnity, yes, but also a little self-deprecating humor. — Longreads, "Manic Street Preachers’ Album The Holy Bible," 25 June 2019 Franchise bloat, reboot mania, award-season solemnity... — Taylor Antrim, Vogue, "Why Netflix's High Flying Bird Feels Like The Future of Movies," 8 Feb. 2019 The exuberance of Armistice Day gave way to the solemnity of Remembrance Day. — Brendan Simms, WSJ, "‘Peace at Last’ Review: Remembering Flanders Fields," 11 Nov. 2018 McCain, who died Saturday after battling brain cancer, selected the out-of-the-way spot over the grandeur and solemnity of Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, where his father and grandfather — both admirals —are buried. — Laurie Kellman, Fox News, "McCain to be buried near best friend at US Naval Academy," 27 Aug. 2018 McCain, who died Saturday after battling brain cancer, selected the out-of-the-way spot over the grandeur and solemnity of Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, where his father and grandfather — both admirals —are buried. — Laurie Kellman, The Seattle Times, "McCain to be buried near best friend at US Naval Academy," 27 Aug. 2018 Some project solemnity and trustworthiness, the way banks seemed way back when. — Dg Fulford, Woman's Day, "Supply and Demand," 21 June 2010 Moments of solemnity punctuated the otherwise loud and festive gathering as several speakers referred to the deadly shooting at the Capital Gazette in Annapolis, which had happened only hours before. — Jennifer Barrios, Washington Post, "With Democratic nominee still undecided, Montgomery unity party has uncertain air," 29 June 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'solemnity.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.