solemnity

From Middle English solemnity (“observance of formality and ceremony”), frequently in the phrases in solemnity, with solemnity, which from Old French solemnite, from Latin sollemnitās, from sollemnis. (Compare solemn.)[1]

solemnity (countable and uncountable, plural solemnities)

1. The quality of being deeply serious and sober or solemn.

   the solemnity of a funeral

   • Addison

     The stateliness and gravity of the Spaniards shows itself in the solemnity of their language.

   • J. Edwards

     These promises were often made with great solemnity and confirmed with an oath.

2. An instance or example of solemn behavior; a rite or ceremony performed with reverence.
   • Alexander Pope

     Great was the cause; our old solemnities / From no blind zeal or fond tradition rise, / But saved from death, our Argives yearly pay / These grateful honours to the god of day.

   • Atterbury

     The forms and solemnities of the last judgment.

3. (law) A solemn or formal observance; proceeding according to due form; the formality which is necessary to render a thing done valid.
4. (obsolete) A celebration or festivity.

• mylonites