informality

[ in-fawr-mal-i-tee ]

noun

, plural in·for·mal·i·ties

1. the state of being informal; absence of formality.
2. an informal act.

informality

/ ˌɪnfɔːˈmælɪtɪ /

noun

1. the condition or quality of being informal
2. an informal act

Other Words From

• super·in·for·mali·ty noun plural superinformalities

Word History and Origins

Origin of informality¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; in- ³ + formality

Example Sentences

The feisty small company regularly attracts young audiences drawn to the informality of its performances, which might be in a club, garden or cemetery.

From Los Angeles Times

Many small businesses prefer TikTok because of its informality — they don’t need a big production budget to showcase their products or services.

From Los Angeles Times

In an attempt to convey intimacy in her conversation with the vice president, Barrymore allowed informality to veer into disrespect.

From Seattle Times

The authorities say the high level of informality in the industry makes tracing the carnauba wax back to big companies a difficult task.

From BBC

A modular office desk with the propped-elbow informality of a French farmhouse table.

From New York Times

Related Words

• casualness
• familiarity
• nonchalance
• simplicity
• spontaneity