formality

noun

1. 1

   The state of being formal.

   [S]uch an one […] recalls as a vision of Paradise the land he has learnt to love; he exaggerates the insalubrity of a northern climate; he bewails the wretched formality of our civilised life, and so, back to the distant solitudes flies his recollection like a dove to the wilderness.

2. 2

   Something said or done as a matter of form.

3. 3

   A customary ritual without substance, real consequence, or unique meaning.

   The examination for priesthood is no mere formality, so we have to study well.

4. 4

   A specific requirement for obtaining a legal status, conducting a transaction, etc.

   I expected some sort of formality before they let me see the crown—so valuable—but there was really nothing at all. I just said, "Can I see No. 64, please?" and he simply pulled one of the shallow drawers out of its case and put it down before me on the table.

Forms

plural

formalities