severance

noun

sev·​er·​ance ˈse-və-rən(t)s 

ˈsev-rən(t)s

: the act or process of severing : the state of being severed

Examples of severance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The interim appointment comes a month after the Convention Center Authority parted ways with its former CEO Marcel Vernon, by way of a $500,00 severance agreement, as a state committee probes corruption allegations at the agency. —Gayla Cawley, Boston Herald, 11 Jan. 2026

Whichever party prompted the coming severance of the relationship, both the center and the opera board seem to be in favor of it, and to acknowledge the relationship has not been recently financially successful. —Chris Willman, Variety, 10 Jan. 2026

Macy's is said to be assisting employees affected by the closures through transfer opportunities and severance where applicable. —Patrick Damp, CBS News, 9 Jan. 2026

Removing severance payments, though, the Hoosiers’ expenses that year would have still trailed 32 other public football programs. —Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 1 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing severance

• severance package
• severance pay
• severance tax

Rhymes for severance

• reverence
• irreverence

Kids Definition

severance

noun

sev·​er·​ance ˈsev-(ə-)rən(t)s 

: the act or process of severing : the state of being severed