solemn-, solemni-

(Latin: serious, earnest, sacred, holy; dignified with formality at a ceremonious service or as a religious devotion)

solemn (SAHL uhm) (adjective), more solemn, most solemn
1. Of a serious, thoughtful, important consideration, or mood: When Jeremy was told about his friend's accident, he had a solemn look on his face.

The church organist played solemn music which caused many in the congregation to think deeply about their lives.

Usually a judge in court is a solemn figure who receives attention and respect.

2. Relating to something which is done with form and ceremony: There was a solemn procession at the funeral for the minister of the church who had a heart attack.

3. Conveying a sincere promise: Adam and Evelyn made a solemn promise to love each other forever.

As an alcoholic for years, Henry made a solemn decision and promise to his wife never to drink liqueur again.

4. Etymology: from Old French solemne, which came from Latin sollemnis, "customary, formal, ceremonial, traditional" and then "performed with due ceremony on a particular day that has been established".
solemness or solemnness (s) (noun) (no plural)
The quality or formality or serious ceremonies: There was a solemness at the service that marked the 100th anniversary of the murdered U.S. President.
solemnity (suh LEM nih tee) (s) (noun), solemnities (pl)
A situation that expresses gravity or seriousness: University and college graduates receive their diplomas with the full realization of the solemnity of the ceremonies.

Reporters wrote about the world being deeply impressed by the solemnity of John F. Kennedy's state funeral in November, 1963.

The singer's voice conveyed the solemnity of the minister's sermon during the church service.

solemnization (s) (noun), solemnizations (pl)
A serious occasion or action: Michael and Catherine were greatly impressed by the solemnization of their son's baptism when he was 18 years old.
solemnize (SAHL uhm nize) (verb), solemnizes; solemnized; solemnizing
To perform a presentation with special rites or ceremonies: The minister of the church solemnized the marriage of Jack and Jill.
solemnizer (s) (noun), solemnizers (pl)
Someone who performs special rituals or observances: As a solemnizer, the pastor of the church led his congregation in a special celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter.
solemnly (adverb), more solemnly, most solemnly
A reference to a demonstration and sincerity of honesty: During the trial, a witness was asked, "Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth and nothing but the truth?"