"formality" Definition

Definitions for the word "formality" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. n.
The condition or quality of being formal, strictly ceremonious, precise, etc.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
Form without substance.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
Compliance with formal or conventional rules; ceremony; conventionality.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
An established order; conventional rule of procedure; usual method; habitual mode.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. n.
The dress prescribed for any body of men, academical, municipal, or sacerdotal.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. n.
That which is formal; the formal part.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. n.
The quality which makes a thing what it is; essence.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
8. n.
The manner in which a thing is conceived or constituted by an act of human thinking; the result of such an act; as, animality and rationality are formalities.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
9. n.
(pl. -ies) 1 a formal, esp. Meaningless, act, regulation, or custom. B thing done simply to comply with a rule. 2 rigid observance of rules or convention.
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "formality" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "formality" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
The definitions for words, phrases and slang (such as "formality") in this dictionary are sourced from multiple sources - including sources historical in nature. The sources may contain outdated, inaccurate or even offensive information when viewed from a modern context. It is important to consider the date the dictionary was published and view such content from a historical perspective and consider that the meanings, interpretations and usage of words may have evolved over time. Users should cross-reference this information with contemporary sources for a more complete understanding.

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