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Definition of severity

severity

/sɪˈvɛr.ə.ti/
se · ver · i · ty
Adverb:severely
•
Plural:severities
•
Adjective:severe
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severity Lexical Profile

severity Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The fact or condition of being intense, extreme, or serious, especially regarding something undesirable such as an illness, injury, or weather event.

Example

"Doctors underestimated the severity of the patient's underlying condition until the test results arrived."

2

Strictness, harshness, or lack of leniency in the treatment, judgment, or discipline of others.

Example

"The judge was known for the severity of his sentences in cases of corporate fraud."

3

Plainness or austerity of style, appearance, or manner, devoid of ornament or warmth.

Example

"The stark severity of the monastic architecture reflected the order's commitment to a simple life."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for severity

• Nearby Words

severance
severe
severely
severity
severn
severum
sevier

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 16th century from Middle French severite, from Latin severitas ('strictness, sternness'), derived from the adjective severus ('serious, austere, strict').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Severity. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/severity
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