severe, stern, austere, ascetic mean given to or marked by strict discipline and firm restraint. severe implies standards enforced without indulgence or laxity and may suggest harshness.

severe adjective (VERY SERIOUS) Add to word list causing great pain, difficulty, damage, etc.; very serious: a severe earthquake

Severe definition: harsh; unnecessarily extreme.. See examples of SEVERE used in a sentence.

1. harsh; unnecessarily extreme: severe criticism. 2. serious or stern in manner or appearance. 3. grave; critical: a severe illness. 4. rigidly restrained in style, taste, etc.; plain; austere.

Definition of severe adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

The common usage is to describe tough or painful stuff, like icy snowstorms, merciless punishments, or grim conditions (e.g., a severe depression). If things are severe, they're serious.

Sep 21, 2025 · Dive into the comprehensive meaning of the term 'severe,' including its etymology, usage, synonyms, and antonyms. Understand how to use the term 'severe' effectively in sentences …

simple, plain, or austere. causing discomfort or distress by extreme character or conditions, as weather, cold, or heat; unpleasantly violent, as rain or wind, or a blow or shock. difficult to endure, perform, …

Oct 8, 2025 · From Middle French, from Latin severus (“severe, serious, grave in demeanor”).

SEVERE meaning: 1 : very bad, serious, or unpleasant; 2 : causing a lot of physical pain or suffering