Main Entry: aus·ter·i·ty

Pronunciation: \ȯ-ˈster-ə-tē, -ˈste-rə- also -ˈstir-ə-\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural aus·ter·i·ties

Date: 14th century

1 : the quality or state of being austere
2 a : an austere act, manner, or attitude b : an ascetic practice
3 : enforced or extreme economy