formal

Where does the word "formal" come from? It comes from Latin forma, passing through Latin before entering English (1400s).

Formal’s story begins in Latin: forma meant “shape, mold, appearance.” The root of 'form', 'formula' and 'uniform'. Within Latin, it grew into formalis by ancient. Of or relating to form, from forma. It reached English by 1400s as formal. Settled as the English word for something done according to established rules or conventions. Today, formal means following established customs or rules, or officially recognized.

1. Stage 1 · Latin · ancient forma "shape, mold, appearance", the root of 'form', 'formula' and 'uniform'.
2. Stage 2 · Latin · ancient formalis "of or relating to form", of or relating to form, from forma.
3. Stage 3 · English · 1400s formal "done according to established rules, conventions, or customs", settled as the English word for something done according to established rules or conventions.