The meaning of FORMALITY is compliance with formal or conventional rules : ceremony. How to use formality in a sentence. Did you know?

FORMALITY definition: condition or quality of being formal; accordance with required or traditional rules, procedures, etc.; conventionality. See examples of formality used in a sentence.

FORMALITY definition: 1. something that has to be done but has no real importance: 2. something that the law or an…. Learn more.

Definition of formality noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Formality is speech or behaviour which is correct and serious, rather than relaxed and friendly, and is used especially in official situations. We wanted to avoid the formality of hotels, so we went camping.

1. condition or quality of being formal; accordance with required or traditional rules, procedures, etc.; conventionality. 2. rigorously methodical character. 3. strict adherence to established rules and …

for•mal•i•ty (fôr mal′ i tē), n., pl. -ties. conventionality. rigorously methodical character. rigidity. observance of form or ceremony. marked or excessive ceremoniousness. an established order or …

Feb 20, 2026 · Noun formality (countable and uncountable, plural formalities) (uncountable) The state of being formal.

A formality is something that follows traditional rules. Even though you knew your request for time off at work would be approved, you still went through the formality of filling out all the required paperwork.

Formality is a set of established conventions, rules, procedures or behaviors that are socially accepted and followed in specific settings, situations or institutions.