Severe

/səˈvɪr/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

of a very great intensity; serious.

The region experienced a severe drought, crippling the local agriculture.

strict or harsh in nature.

The teacher imposed a severe punishment for cheating on the exam.

causing great pain, distress, or hardship.

He suffered from a severe headache that lasted all day.

grave or extreme in nature.

The severe weather conditions forced the cancellation of the outdoor concert.

From Middle English 'severe', from Latin 'severus', meaning serious or strict.

severe weather

Extreme weather conditions that can be dangerous.

severe pain

Pain that is very intense and difficult to tolerate.

severe consequences

Major negative outcomes resulting from a situation.

severity

The condition of being severe.

severely

In a severe manner; to a very great degree.

severeness

The state or quality of being severe.

Extremely awesome or impressive.

That party was severe!

A term to describe something bad or difficult.

I'm having a severe time with this project.