A weighty word

“Gravitas” means dignity, seriousness or influence. It comes from the Latin gravitas, which meant weight or heaviness, according to the Online Etymology Dictionary. Gravitas gave us “gravity,” which was first used to indicate dignity, seriousness or influence, the dictionary states.

The dictionary also notes that “gravity” in its scientific sense was “first recorded” in the 1640s.

“Gravitas,” the dictionary says, “became useful when gravity acquired a primarily scientific meaning.”

It’s good to remember that gravity, despite its association with weightiness, seriousness and a downward pull, can help provide some light-hearted fun.

Photo special to the Sentinel