solemnity etymology

Etymology:

  • Latin: "sollemnis"
  • Proto-Indo-European: "*solwe-" (whole, entire)

Meaning:

  • Grave dignity or seriousness
  • The quality of being highly formal or ceremonial

Origin:

The word "solemnity" derives from the Latin term "sollemnis," which originally meant "customary, annual" or "state, public." It is believed that "sollemnis" itself is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*solwe-," which meant "whole, entire."

In ancient Rome, "sollemnis" referred to festivals or religious observances that were held regularly and with great formality. Over time, the term came to be used more broadly to describe any event or occasion that was characterized by its seriousness, dignity, or ceremonial nature.

In English, the word "solemnity" first appeared in the 13th century, initially referring to religious occasions. By the 16th century, it had also come to denote secular events that were marked by a similar degree of formality or seriousness.

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