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 of solemnity

• intentness
• gravity
• earnestness
• solemnness
• seriousness

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

Preventing the entry of the Patriarch of Jerusalem and the Keeper of the Holy Land, moreover in a central solemnity for the faith such as Palm Sunday, constitutes an offense not only for believers, but for every community that recognizes religious freedom. —Eric MacK, FOXNews.com, 29 Mar. 2026

Jacir’s film, which was short-listed (but not nominated) for the Oscar for Best International Feature, has no use for art-film solemnity. —Justin Chang, New Yorker, 20 Mar. 2026

The issue before the president should not have been fashion or venue, but solemnity. —Kenneth Zagacki, Sun Sentinel, 17 Mar. 2026

The solemnity awaiting celebration is truly beautiful. —James T. Farmer, Southern Living, 15 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for solemnity

• indemnity