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

• earnest
• earnestness
• graveness
• gravity
• intentness
• serious-mindedness
• seriousness
• soberness
• sobriety
• solemnness
• staidness

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

The dramatic ritual was more colorful than even Hollywood could create, a wash of colors, chants, incense and solemnity that underscored the seriousness of the moment. —Nicole Winfield, Chicago Tribune, 7 May 2025

American flags will be lowered across the country to fly at half-staff to reflect the solemnity of Memorial Day on Monday morning. —Chloe Mayer, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 May 2025

Understandably, the event at the center had a religious solemnity to it. —Nicholas Lalla, WIRED, 4 Mar. 2025

What's Next With Pope Francis now laid to rest, preparations begin for the real-life conclave that could mirror—if not the drama, then at least the solemnity—of the film's depiction. —Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for solemnity

• indemnity