- 1
Without humor or expression of happiness; grave in manner or disposition.
- deadly serious
- It was a surprise to see the captain, who had always seemed so serious, laugh so heartily.
- 2
Important; weighty; not insignificant.
- This is a serious problem. We'll need our best experts.
- 3
Really intending what is said (or planned, etc); in earnest; not jocular or deceiving.
- After all these years, we're finally getting serious attention.
- He says he wants to buy the team, but is he serious?
- 4
Committed.
syn. austere · frightful · demure · serious · grave · earnest · grievous · lack-laughter · thoughtful · sad · sage · saturnine
ant. trifling · unimportant · jesting · gaudy · witty