se|vere´ly

se|vere «suh VIHR», adjective, -ver|er, -ver|est.

1. very strict; stern; harsh: »

a severe reprimand, severe self-denial. The judge imposed a severe sentence on the criminal.

2. sharp or violent: »

severe criticism, a severe winter. I have a severe headache. That was a severe storm.

3. serious; dangerous; grave: »

a severe illness.

4. very plain or simple; without ornament: »

She wore a severe black dress.

SYNONYM(S): chaste, unadorned.

5. difficult; taxing: »

The new gun had to pass a series of severe tests.

SYNONYM(S): exacting.

6. rigidly exact, accurate, or methodical: »

severe reasoning.

SYNONYM(S): precise, rigid.

╂[< Latin sevērus]

–se|vere´ly, adverb.

–se|vere´ness, noun.

Synonym Study 1 Severe, stern mean having or showing strictness. Severe implies uncompromising strictness and the absence of any mildness or indulgence: »

a severe critic, severe punishment.

Stern implies rigid firmness of manner or appearance, sometimes assumed only for the occasion: »

a stern look of disapproval. The coach is stern when boys break training.