Noah Webster
Serious
SE'RIOUS, adjective [Latin serius.]
1. Grave in manner or disposition; solemn; not light, gay or volatile; as a serious man; a serious habit or disposition.
2. Really intending what is said; being in earnest; not jesting or making false pretense. Are you serious, or in jest?
3. Important; weighty; not trijling.
The holy Sciptures bring to your ears the most serious things in the world. Young.
4. Particularlyattentive to religioul concerns or one's own religious state.