See Also:

serious (iou)



serious adjective. LME.
[Old & mod. French serieux or late Latin seriosus, from Latin serius (used only of things in classical times): see -OUS.]
Of persons, actions, etc.: having, involving, expressing, or arising from earnest purpose or thought; grave, solemn, sober, or sedate in disposition or intention; responsible, not reckless or careless; sincere, not joking; not trifling or superficial. LME.
F. A. Kemble I really entertain serious thoughts of learning how to use a gun. D. H. Lawrence Quite a serious flirtation with a man who played a flute. G. Greene The generation now reaching middle-age has been a peculiarly serious one.
b. Firmly resolved on a purpose, intent. M16-L17.
Requiring earnest consideration or application; performed with earnestness. M16.
C. Lamb I have played at serious whist with Mr. Liston. Manchester Examiner Perhaps more serious reading would..dethrone the eternal novel.
Important, grave; having (potentially) important, esp. undesired, consequences; giving cause for concern; of significant degree or amount, worthy of consideration; colloq. (of a price or value) high. L16.
H. James He wondered if she had been in serious want of food. E. V. Knox I expect it's a serious offence to allow a pet panther to..bite the public. L. Uris Kitty had been..reassured that Karen's condition was not serious. Indy Chunky trainers are the new fashion..but..the prices are pretty serious!
Of grave or solemn aspect or appearance. E17.
M. O. W. Oliphant His dress seemly and serious. E. Hemingway Lieutenant Berrendo..came riding up, his thin face serious and grave.
Dealing with or concerning grave or factual matters; (of drama, actors, etc.) not jocular or comic; (of music, literature, etc.) not intended simply to amuse, please, or entertain (freq. opp. light or popular). E18.
Times Literary Supplement Sensational elements began to infiltrate..into the work of serious novelists.
Earnestly religious. Now rare. L18.
seriousness noun L15.