solemnize
SOL-um-nyze
/ˈsɒl.əm.naɪz/
To perform a formal ceremony, especially a marriage, with the required ritual and legal gravity.
It doesn't just mean 'to do'; it means to make something official and sacred through proper procedure.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'sollemnis', which originally meant 'established' or 'annual'. It was used for religious rites that occurred at set times of the year, eventually coming to mean performing a ceremony with proper gravity.
Word relationships
- celebrate: Celebrate implies joy and partying; solemnize implies ritual and legal validity.
- perform: Perform is a neutral term; solemnize adds a layer of dignity and formality.
Commonly confused with
- formalize: Formalize is more general (e.g., formalizing a contract); solemnize is specific to rituals and marriages.
Word family
- solemnization (noun): The act of solemnizing.
- solemn (adjective): Serious and formal.
Collocations
- solemnize a marriage
- solemnize a union
- duly solemnized
Example sentences
- "The marriage must be solemnized by a person authorized by the state to perform such ceremonies." A legal requirement for marriage.
- "They chose to solemnize their union in the same cathedral where their parents had wed." Describing the gravity of the ritual.
Memory hook
Solemnize makes it 'Solemn' (serious) and 'Size' (official size/status). Make it solemn to solemnize.
When not to use
Don't use it for casual celebrations like 'solemnizing a birthday party'.
Fun facts
- In many jurisdictions, if a marriage is not 'duly solemnized' according to specific laws, it may not be legally recognized.
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