Form"al*ist, n. [Cf. F. formaliste.]

One overattentive to forms, or too much confined to them; esp., one who rests in external religious forms, or observes strictly the outward forms of worship, without possessing the life and spirit of religion.

As far a formalist from wisdom sits, In judging eyes, as libertines from wits. Young.

 

© Webster 1913.

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