What does solemnise mean?
Solemnise is a formal British verb meaning to marry two people in a solemn ceremony. It presents marriage as more than a private legal arrangement, emphasizing the gravity, ritual, and public significance of the union. The word is often encountered in formal or ceremonial contexts, such as religious weddings, civic ceremonies, and announcements concerning royal or notable marriages. Most speakers would simply say “married” when discussing the event, but “solemnised” can add dignity and ceremonial weight to the description. It is especially associated with British usage, although the equivalent form “solemnize” is standard in North America. The distinction between the spellings is one of regional convention: both communicate the same meaning, but each follows the preferred spelling of its own variety of English.
verbTo marry two people in a formal, solemn ceremony. The word emphasizes the ceremonial and legally binding character of the marriage.
- To marry two people in a formal or solemn ceremony.
"They solemnised their marriage in the cathedral with friends and family present."
"The couple solemnised their marriage before a celebrant."
"The ceremony solemnised the union of the two branches of the family."
Some marriages are celebrated; others are solemnised — a distinction that puts ceremony at the centre of the word.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does solemnise come from?
The word derives from Latin solemnis, meaning “solemn, earnest, or duly sanctioned,” with the original sense associated with religious rites and solemn observances. It entered English during the late Middle Ages in the form “solemn,” and the verb “solemnise” was developed later by adding the suffix -ize. The related noun “solemnity” follows the same Latin root and shares the word’s emphasis on gravity and ceremonial dignity.
Related word forms
How solemnise is actually used
Chiefly British and formal. In everyday British English, “marry” or “get married” is more usual. The North American spelling is “solemnize.”
Easily confused with solemnise
“Solemnise” is the standard British spelling, while “solemnize” is the standard North American spelling.