The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

4.8

✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 632 pages, 147 lessons, 428 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, CPE, BEC, PTE, FCE

Buy on Amazon

Amazon Best Seller:

#1 Spelling & Vocabulary.

#1 Education TOEFL & TOEIC.

#1 Slang & Idiom Reference Books.

Transform Your Vocabulary Today!

solemn

adjective

/ˈsɒləm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of solemn

Characterized by a serious, grave, and dignified sense of importance or significance.
"She took a solemn oath to uphold the law."

Detailed meaning of solemn

When something is described as solemn, it implies a lack of levity or humor and a deep, often somber sense of reverence. Solemn occasions include formal ceremonies, religious rituals, funerals, or moments of reflection, where a sense of gravity and respect for tradition and solemnity is expected. In personal demeanor, someone who appears solemn may be thoughtful, composed, and serious in their expression or behavior. "Solemn" emphasizes a sense of respect and solemnity, often connected to the recognition of the gravity of a situation or the significance of a particular event or moment.

Example sentences containing solemn

1. The solemn ceremony paid tribute to fallen heroes.
2. Her solemn vow sealed their lifelong commitment.
3. The judge's solemn demeanor commanded respect.
4. The church was filled with solemn hymns and prayers.
5. A solemn silence fell upon the grieving crowd.
6. The president delivered a solemn address to the nation.

History and etymology of solemn

The adjective 'solemn' has an etymology that reflects its serious and dignified nature. It comes from the Latin word 'solemnis,' which means 'festive' or 'celebrated with ceremony.' In ancient Rome, 'solemnis' was used to describe religious ceremonies and festivities marked by their seriousness and grandeur. Over time, the term evolved to emphasize the gravity and dignified nature of such ceremonies, and in English, 'solemn' came to describe anything characterized by a serious, grave, and dignified sense of importance or significance. The etymology of 'solemn' underscores its historical association with formal and important events, highlighting the sense of gravity and reverence that it conveys in describing solemn occasions or demeanor.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective solemn:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of solemn

1. The soldier's solemn salute honored his duty.
2. The solemn ritual marked the beginning of the new year.
3. A solemn oath was sworn in the ancient temple.
4. The solemn procession moved through the streets.
5. The teacher's solemn tone conveyed the importance of the lesson.
6. The courtroom was a place of solemn justice.
7. Their solemn faces reflected the gravity of the situation.
8. A solemn memorial stood in honor of those lost in war.
9. The air was filled with the solemn tolling of bells.
10. A solemn promise was made to never forget.
11. The graduation ceremony was a solemn occasion.
12. The funeral was a solemn farewell to a loved one.
13. The priest delivered a solemn sermon on forgiveness.
14. The ambassador's solemn words sought peace in turmoil.
15. The treaty signing was a solemn diplomatic event.
16. The courtroom was filled with solemn witnesses.
17. The judge's gavel fell with solemn finality.
18. The solemn atmosphere in the cathedral inspired reflection.
19. The national anthem was sung with solemn pride.
20. He made a solemn promise to his family.
21. The company made a solemn commitment to sustainability.
22. He had a solemn expression on his face during the funeral.
23. She made a solemn declaration of love during the wedding ceremony.
24. The group held a solemn memorial for the victims of the tragedy.
25. He made a solemn pledge to donate to charity.
26. She had a solemn demeanor during the trial.
27. The politician gave a solemn speech about the importance of unity during the crisis.
28. He had a solemn expression as he read his father's eulogy.
29. She had a solemn look on her face as she signed the contract.
30. The company had a solemn tone in their press release following the accident.