solemne
“solemne” means “solemn” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
solemn, formal
Also: grave, majestic
📝 In Action
El juez dictó la sentencia con voz solemne.
B1The judge delivered the sentence with a solemn voice.
Fue una ceremonia muy solemne en la catedral.
B2It was a very formal ceremony in the cathedral.
Hicieron una promesa solemne de ayudarse siempre.
C1They made a solemn promise to always help each other.
total, utter
Also: complete
📝 In Action
Eres un solemne tonto si crees que eso es verdad.
C1You are an utter fool if you think that's true.
Le dijo una solemne mentira a su jefe.
C2He told a complete lie to his boss.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: solemne
Question 1 of 3
Which of these events is most likely to be described as 'solemne'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'sollemnis,' which referred to religious festivals that took place every year. It literally means 'established' or 'traditional.'
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'solemne' the same as 'serio'?
Not exactly. 'Serio' is for anyone not smiling, but 'solemne' is for grand occasions like weddings, funerals, or government acts.
Do I ever need to change the ending to 'a'?
No. Whether you are talking about 'un acto' (masculine) or 'una ceremonia' (feminine), it is always 'solemne'.
Is it a common word?
You won't hear it every day at the grocery store, but you will see it often in books, newspapers, and formal speeches.