SOLEMNIZE Synonyms: 23 Similar and Opposite Words

solemnize

verb

Definition of solemnize

as in to consecrate

formal to mark (something) officially or formally especially with a religious ceremony The priest solemnized their marriage.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of solemnize The funeral took place in the Cambridge church where her wedding had been solemnized sixteen months earlier. — Anthony Lane, New Yorker, 13 Oct. 2025 Once received, the license must be solemnized with a ceremony conducted by someone recognized as having the legal power do so. — Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 8 May 2020 According to custom in these conservative Hindu communities, while weddings are often solemnized at very young ages, a bride typically is sent to live with her husband’s family and consummate the union in her teens. — Author: Shashank Bengali, Anchorage Daily News, 24 June 2018 In one temple, an officiant claimed that his facility had solemnized 1,500 mixed marriages over the last five years. — Ira Trivedi, Foreign Affairs, 14 Nov. 2013

Recent Examples of Synonyms for solemnize

Verb

It was consecrated by James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner, young Black and Jewish men murdered together in 1964 for their work to register Black voters.

— Seth Limmer, Chicago Tribune, 1 Nov. 2026
In Sugar Land, Texas, a 90-foot statue of the deity Hanuman, consecrated in 2024 at a temple complex, continues to draw disparaging comments, including one YouTube personality who recently urged its demolition.

— ABC News, ABC News, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of consecrate

Verb

Tory Burch was honored with the Positive Change Award, which was presented to her by Anna Wintour, the global editorial director of Vogue and chief content officer of Condé Nast.

— José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 5 Nov. 2026
The annual awards ceremony will be held on November 13 in Los Angeles, honoring behind-the-camera artisans who work tirelessly at their craft to make some of the best films in the world.

— William Earl, Variety, 4 Nov. 2026

Definition of honor

Verb

For the last five decades, the CZMA has been celebrated as a bipartisan co-management framework that gave coastal and Great Lakes states the power to review and object to federal projects that affect their shorelines.

— Rosanna Xia, Los Angeles Times, 24 Oct. 2026
In her new role, Danielle will help celebrate her aunt's life and accomplishments while offering a personal perspective on the woman behind the music, according to a press release announcing the appointment.

— ABC News, ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of celebrate

Verb

Through the spring and summer the forest in this mountain backcountry had been blessed with abundant rainfall and the wild creatures were busy reaping the berries, seeds and other browse.

— Charles Elliott, Outdoor Life, 5 Nov. 2026
God blessed the chance to work in that beautiful city, a very historical football team, a ton of history there.

— Scott Thompson OutKick, FOXNews.com, 3 Nov. 2026

Definition of bless

Verb

His unselfishness prevents him from being made to look a fool, and instead he is dignified by it, sanctified by it.

— Artforum, Artforum, 4 Nov. 2026
At the sound of Mary’s greeting, Elizabeth felt her baby leap in her womb, which signified that John had become sanctified and cleansed of original sin, as if by baptism, according to Catholic doctrine.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of sanctify

Verb

West Peninsula Drive is now dedicated as Lindsey Vonn Way, commemorating her 20-year partnership with Baltimore-based Under Armour, whose headquarters is nearby.

— CBS Baltimore, CBS News, 4 Nov. 2026
Some were traveling to funerals, weddings and family reunions that the poet laureate commemorated in a poem written in minutes.

— Maddie Connors, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2026

Definition of commemorate

Verb

Trump praised O’Donnell’s positions on border security, taxes, and small businesses.

— Rena Rowe, The Washington Examiner, 4 Nov. 2026
The MobLand actor was very diplomatic in his answer, generously praising the field of young stars who are up for the part.

— James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 3 Nov. 2026

Definition of praise

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solemnize

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“Solemnize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/solemnize. Accessed 8 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of solemnize

verb

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