ceremonious

Ceremonious is an adjective describing actions or behavior that are performed with a high degree of formality and adherence to ritual or etiquette. It often conveys a sense of propriety and deference in social interaction, but it can also imply stiffness, artificiality, or excessive politeness when overused.

Etymology: The word is built from ceremony plus the suffix -ous. The noun ceremony comes from Old French cerémonie, from Latin caerimonia, which in turn derives from Greek hierōn ‘holy’ and related forms referring to sacred rites. The adjective ceremonial, meaning relating to a ceremony or performed as part of a formal rite, shares a common root.

Usage: Ceremonious is commonly used to describe how people act in formal settings, such as court, diplomacy, or ceremonial occasions (weddings, state visits). It can describe manners, greetings, or procedures that follow established protocols. In some contexts it suggests prudence and respect; in others, it implies rigidity or affectation if the conduct seems overly stiff or performative.

See also: ceremonial; ceremonially (adverb). Related terms include formal, decorous, punctilious; antonyms include informal, casual, spontaneous. Examples: a ceremonious welcome; a ceremonious bow.