formality

noun

for·​mal·​i·​ty fȯr-ˈma-lə-tē How to pronounce formality (audio)
plural formalities
1
: compliance with formal or conventional rules : ceremony
2
: the quality or state of being formal
3
: an established form or procedure that is required or conventional
the interview was just a formality

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Formal behavior follows the proper forms or customs, and informal behavior feels free to ignore them. The formality of a dinner party is indicated by such formalities as invitations, required dress, and full table settings. Legal formalities, or technicalities, may turn out to be all-important even if they often seem minor. America requires fewer formalities than many other countries (in Germany, for example, you may know someone for years before using his or her first name), but even in relaxed situations Americans may be observing invisible formalities.

Examples of formality in a Sentence

Her use of old-fashioned language lends an air of formality to her writing. He failed to appreciate the formality of the occasion. They haven't approved the loan yet, but that's just a mere formality.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
But even if newscasts come with a certain level of formality, the anchors that ground the programs are only human. Kyler Alvord, People.com, 18 June 2025 Third-base coach Matt Williams waved Adames home, but that was a mere formality. Andrew Baggarly, New York Times, 18 June 2025 With Moynihan’s most ambitious proposals to support men and families scuttled again, Nixon, too, was left only with symbolic gestures and formalities. Augustine Sedgewick, Time, 13 June 2025 With a patent finish, the shoes added a glamorous gloss to her ensemble, aligning with the formality of her dress. Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 12 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for formality

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of formality was in 1597

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Cite this Entry

“Formality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/formality. Accessed 24 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

formality

noun
for·​mal·​i·​ty fȯr-ˈmal-ət-ē How to pronounce formality (audio)
plural formalities
1
: a going along with formal or customary rules : ceremony
2
: the quality or state of being formal
3
: an established form that is required or usual
the interview was just a formality

More from Merriam-Webster on formality

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