n. (pl. -ies) 1 a a formal or ceremonial act, requirement of etiquette, regulation, or custom (often with an implied lack of real significance). b a thing done simply to comply with a rule. 2 the rigid observance of rules or convention. 3 ceremony; elaborate procedure. 4 being formal; precision of manners. 5 stiffness of design.
[ F formalité or med.L formalitas (as FORMAL) ]