səˈlemnəd.ē, -nətē, -i noun
( -es )
Etymology: Middle English solempnite, solemnite, from Old French solempnité, solemnité, from Late Latin solemnitat-, solemnitas, from Latin solemnis solemn + -itat-, -itas -ity
1. : formal or ceremonious observance of an occasion or event : such observance as a due of a particular occasion, person, or event
welcomed the visiting statesman with fitting solemnity
especially : solemn liturgical celebration of a sacrament, service, or feast day
the solemnities of Easter
2.
a. : a solemn event or occasion (as a season, rite, utterance, or feast day)
b. : an observance or proceeding according to due form : the formality necessary to make a thing done valid in law
3. : a solemn condition or quality (as of mien) : the state of being serious, dignified, or awe-inspiring
the solemnity of his words
an occasion of great solemnity