Ceremoniousness

/ˌserəˈmoʊniəsnəs/ noun

Definition

The quality of being ceremonious; excessive formality or a tendency to observe ritual and proper etiquette very strictly.

Etymology

From 'ceremonious' plus '-ness', creating an abstract noun describing the characteristic quality of being overly formal or ritual-focused.

Kelly Says

The ceremoniousness of Victorian society was so extreme that people had strict rules about everything—what fork to use, how far to raise your eyebrows, even how many curtseys different ranks required—and breaking these rules could literally ruin your reputation.

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