Search Dictionary
Definition of formalness

formalness

/ˈfɔːrməlnəs/
for · mal · ness
Adverb:formally
•
Adjective:formal
JUMP TO:

formalness Lexical Profile

formalness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being formal; strict adherence to established rules, conventions, or etiquette, or a stiff and reserved manner.

Example

"The unexpected formalness of his greeting made everyone in the room feel slightly uneasy."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for formalness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for formalness

Word Nuance & Usage

While "formalness" is grammatically valid, native speakers vastly prefer "formality" in nearly all contexts; "formalness" is occasionally chosen only to emphasize the purely abstract quality of being formal as opposed to a specific procedural requirement.

• Nearby Words

formality
formalize
formally
formalness
format
formation
formational

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Formalness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/formalness
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.