Adjective

(en-adj)

Without humor or expression of happiness; grave in manner or disposition; earnest; thoughtful; solemn.

It was a surprise to see the captain, who had always seemed so serious , laugh so heartily.

Important; weighty; not trifling; leaving no room for play; needing great attention; critical.

This is a serious problem. We'll need our best experts.

Really intending what is said; being in earnest; not jesting or deceiving; meaningful.

After all these years, we're finally getting serious attention.

Adjective

(er)

high, tall, having great height or stature

* {{quote-book

, year=1862 , author=George Borrow , title=Wild Wales , chapter=98 citation , passage=On my left was a river, which came roaring down from a range of lofty mountains right before me to the south-east.}}

a lofty bed

idealistic, implying over-optimism

a lofty goal

* 2013 , Delme Parfitt in Wales Online'', ''Cardiff City 1 - 0 Swansea City: Steven Caulker heads Bluebirds to South Wales derby win (3 November 2013)

A goal from Steven Caulker, just after the hour mark, was enough to hand victory to Malky Mackay's men, with Swansea falling some way short of the lofty standards they have set previously at this level.

extremely proud; arrogant; haughty

* F. Harrison

that lofty pity with which prosperous folk are apt to remember their grandfathers