solemnisation

Everyday

1. (formal) The act of performing a ceremony, especially a wedding, in a serious, official way. tree →
2. (formal) Making something official with a solemn ceremony. tree →

In the lessons

It is a stiff, official word used in law and religion, mainly about weddings: «the solemnisation of a marriage». In everyday talk people just say «the wedding» or «getting married». In exam or legal texts it tells the reader that something was done formally and officially. Phrases: «solemnisation of marriage».

Examples

• (formal) The solemnisation of the marriage took place in the town hall. tree →
• (formal) A priest or registrar must be present for the solemnisation. tree →
• The notice listed the place of solemnisation. tree →
• In plain words, solemnisation just means holding the wedding ceremony. tree →
• The law sets out who may carry out the solemnisation of a marriage. tree →
• (formal) The solemnisation was followed by a small party. tree →

Note

British, Irish, Australian and NZ spelling is «solemnisation»; American is «solemnization». From «solemnise» (to perform a ceremony) and «solemn» (serious). Note the silent «n» in «solemn» is sounded in «solemnise» and «solemnisation». A rare, formal word.