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

Adding to the solemnity of the occasion was a string quartet that played two slow movements from Alban Berg’s Lyric Suite. — Peter E. Gordon, The New York Review of Books, 3 Oct. 2026

What’s also obvious from Mel’s photography is the solemnity of these places and the humanity of those living and working within them. — Stephanie Hanes, Christian Science Monitor, 2 Oct. 2026

Gudmannsson, who speaks with a detached solemnity, isn’t quite sure what to make of it. — HubSpot, 1 Oct. 2026

Their extraordinary height, massive trunks and quiet solemnity really moved me. — Antonia Bowring, Forbes.com, 29 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for solemnity

• indemnity