n. The practice or the doctrine of strict adherence to, or dependence on, external forms, esp. in matters of religion. [ 1913 Webster ]
Official formalism. Sir H. Rawlinson. [ 1913 Webster ]
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. [ 1913 Webster ]
As far a formalist from wisdom sits,
In judging eyes, as libertines from wits. Young. [ 1913 Webster ]