informality

from WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006)

informality
    n 1: a manner that does not take forms and ceremonies seriously
         [ant: {formality}, {formalness}]
    2: freedom from constraint or embarrassment; "I am never at ease
       with strangers" [syn: {ease}, {informality}]

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Informality \In`for*mal"i*ty\, n.; pl. {Informalities}.
   1. The state of being informal; lack of regular, prescribed,
      or customary form; as, the informality of legal
      proceedings.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. An informal, unconventional, or unofficial act or
      proceeding; something which is not in proper or prescribed
      form or does not conform to the established rule.
      [1913 Webster]

from Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856)

INFORMALITY. The want of those forms required by law. Informality is a good 
ground for a plea in abatement. Com. Dig. Abatement, H 1, 6; Lawes, Pl. 106; 
Gould, Pl. c. 5, part 1, Sec. 132.

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