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
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
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
Advertisement That shift in tone, from early seasons that moved fluidly between humor and wonder and angst to the relentless solemnity of the past two, has been particularly frustrating with regard to our hero.
—Judy Berman, Time, 26 June 2025
His boorish behavior was condemned by others silently and did not affect the solemnity of the ceremony.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 10 June 2025
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
See All Example Sentences for solemnity
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.
Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
Advertisement That shift in tone, from early seasons that moved fluidly between humor and wonder and angst to the relentless solemnity of the past two, has been particularly frustrating with regard to our hero.
—Judy Berman, Time, 26 June 2025
His boorish behavior was condemned by others silently and did not affect the solemnity of the ceremony.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 10 June 2025
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
See All Example Sentences for solemnity
Cite this Entry
“Solemnity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solemnity. Accessed 16 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share