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SOLEMN
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I. (adjective)
Sense 1
Meaning:
Characterized by a firm and humorless belief in the validity of your opinions
Example:
a film with a solemn social message
Synonyms:
Classified under:
Similar:
serious (concerned with work or important matters rather than play or trivialities)
Derivation:
solemnity (a trait of dignified seriousness)
solemnity (a solemn and dignified feeling)
Sense 2
Meaning:
Dignified and somber in manner or character and committed to keeping promises
Example:
the judge was solemn as he pronounced sentence
Synonyms:
Classified under:
Similar:
serious (concerned with work or important matters rather than play or trivialities)
Derivation:
solemness; solemnity (a trait of dignified seriousness)
solemnity (a solemn and dignified feeling)
Context examples:
Do not let us be too solemn on the business.
(Emma, by Jane Austen)
“He ain't no care, Mas'r Davy,” said Mr. Peggotty in a solemn whisper—“kinder no care no-how for his life.
(David Copperfield, by Charles Dickens)
Another entreaty that she would be serious, however, produced the desired effect; and she soon satisfied Jane by her solemn assurances of attachment.
(Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen)
The solemn butler knew and welcomed him; he was subjected to no stage of delay, but ushered direct from the door to the dining-room where Dr. Lanyon sat alone over his wine.
(The Strange Case Of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde, by Robert Louis Stevenson)
Jo went and sat on one arm of the chair, looking as if she thought they were about to join in some very solemn affair.
(Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott)
He was gray also, from his long beard to his rough boots, and he looked stern and solemn, and rarely spoke.
(The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, by L. Frank Baum)
And John would touch his forelock with a solemn way he had that made me think he was the best of men.
(Treasure Island, by Robert Louis Stevenson)
I am assured that it is safe at Northampton; and there it has probably been these ten days, in spite of the solemn assurances we have so often received to the contrary.
(Mansfield Park, by Jane Austen)
I have sworn it by the most solemn oaths which a man can take.
(The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)
Each member of the Cabinet was informed of it yesterday, but the pledge of secrecy which attends every Cabinet meeting was increased by the solemn warning which was given by the Prime Minister.
(The Return of Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)
