formal

Pronunciation: /ˈfɔɹməl/

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a lavish dance requiring formal attire
  2. noun a gown for evening wear
  3. adjective being in accord with established forms and conventions and requirements (as e.g. of formal dress)

Etymology

From Middle English formel, borrowed from Old French formel, from Latin fōrmālis, from fōrma (“form”); equivalent to form + -al.

In classic literature

Synonyms

ball

Semantic network

Broader (hypernyms)
dance
Narrower (hyponyms)
promenade, cotillion, masked ball

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