formality

noun

fȯr-ˈma-lə-tē How to pronounce formality (audio)
Definition of formalitynext
1
as in gesture
an act or utterance that is a customary show of good manners bowing to your guest is a formality you don't need to perform for me

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in ritual
an oft-repeated action or series of actions performed in accordance with tradition or a set of rules churchgoers loved the formalities of a traditional Christmas Eve candlelight service

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of formality If the principal can override any decision, there is no committee, only a formality. — Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum, Forbes.com, 29 Sep. 2026 Transfers, formalities, excursions, and ground transportation are handled throughout. — Guy Bigiaoui, Miami Herald, 28 Sep. 2026 The formality of this really makes for a stunning impact in early spring when everything else seems dead. — Dr. Matthew Lisy, Hartford Courant, 28 Sep. 2026 In Milan they’re paired with suits as a way to counterbalance the formality. — Alex Sales, Glamour, 27 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for formality
Recent Examples of Synonyms for formality
  1. gesture
  2. ritual
  3. courtesy
  4. ceremony
  5. observance
Noun
  • Nordrum’s expressive eyes setting the scene for what might be the most romantic gesture in literature (and movie) history.
    — Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 15 Oct. 2026
  • The gestures of moving, being, and breathing coalesced for Kristin as this poem, which emerged from the state of presence that is meditation-in-action.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of gesture
Noun
  • Other amenities include a Wellbeing by Auberge program, complete with thermal rituals, skin therapies, and more luxe treatments rooted in a holistic approach to health and longevity.
    — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Estes said the aqueduct's water was used for both practical and religious purposes, including cleaning up after sacrifices and performing purification rituals at the Temple Mount.
    — Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of ritual
Noun
  • The rest of the kitchen is pretty in pink, courtesy of a rosy Zia Tile backsplash and mosaic countertops by Concrete Collaborative.
    — Tori Latham, Robb Report, 13 Oct. 2026
  • Hell, even recurring characters drop off without so much as the courtesy of a sickening demise.
    — Ben Travers, IndieWire, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of courtesy
Noun
  • The awards were handed out tonight at an imposing ceremony at Rio de Janeiro’s legendary Odeon cinema.
    — Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 12 Oct. 2026
  • Postwar Hiroshima was a popular setting for these movie gangsters, who fought dirty, had no use for the old ceremonies, and wore flashy suits and aviator shades.
    — Ian Buruma, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 2026
Definition of ceremony
Noun
  • On White Cane Awareness Day, an annual observance celebrating the achievements and independence of visually impaired individuals, Darnes and more than 50 other veterans received a free pair of Meta smart glasses.
    — La'Tasha Givens, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Dedicated to empowering Black Philadelphians Philadelphia Martyrs Day is an annual observance that pays homage to the five Philadelphia men who fought for Black suffrage and were killed in the 1871 election.
    — Timothy Welbeck, The Conversation, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of observance

Browse Nearby Words

formalities
formality
formalization
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Cite this Entry

“Formality.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formality. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on formality

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about formality

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