From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
formalized \formalized\ adj.
1. concerned with or characterized by rigorous adherence to
recognized forms, especially in religion or art; using
formalism; as, highly formalized plays like "Waiting for
Godot".
Syn: formalistic.
[WordNet 1.5]
2. given formal standing or endorsement; made official or
legitimate by the observance of proper procedures.
official (vs. unofficial) --- (having official authority
or sanction: "official permission"; "an official
representative")
[WordNet 1.5]
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Formalize \Form"al*ize\ (f[^o]rm"al*[imac]z), v. t. [imp. & p.
p. Formalized (f[^o]rm"al*[imac]zd); p. pr. & vb. n.
Formalizing (f[^o]rm"al*[imac]`z[i^]ng).]
1. To give form, or a certain form, to; to model. [R.]
[1913 Webster]
2. To render formal.
[1913 Webster]