NYT Dictionary

FORMAL

/ˈfɔɹməl/
AdjectiveNounFOR-malfor-mal · 2 syllablesGrade 6

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2025

Meaning

In accordance with established forms.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English

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

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

ballconventionalschematiccourtlystatelyacceptedacknowledgedadmittedaloofapproved

Antonyms

informal

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 2 recorded puzzles:

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