formelle

Formelle is a term that occurs in multiple languages, where it carries different meanings depending on the linguistic context. In general, it is not a single, unified concept but rather a word form with distinct uses in German and Italian, among others.

In German, formelle is the feminine singular inflected form of the adjective formell, meaning formal. It is used before feminine nouns to describe formality, as in a formelle Anrede (a formal salutation) or formelle Kleidung (formal attire). The form reflects standard German adjective ending rules after definite or strongly determiner-like elements. Additionally, formelle can appear as part of the broader noun phrase referring to formalities, though more common is the noun das Formelle to denote the set of formal aspects or formal procedures in a given context.

In Italian, formelle is the plural of formella, a term for a small decorative plate, tile, or plaque used in architectural or artistic decoration. Formelle appear in discussions of medieval and Renaissance buildings, churches, and mosaics, where they often bear inscriptions, heraldic symbols, or relief imagery. The term is primarily found within art history and conservation literature.

Etymologically, the German sense derives from formell, itself linked to the notion of form, structure, and etiquette, while the Italian sense is tied to material culture and ornament. Because formelle has different meanings in different languages, the term is typically disambiguated by language and context in scholarly writing.