Definition of harsh
1
: having a coarse uneven surface that is rough or unpleasant to the touch
granite stones harsh with lichen— Nancy Hale
2a
: causing a disagreeable or painful sensory reaction : irritating
harsh colors harsh lighting her harsh high-pitched voice The horseradish was too harsh for the children.
: overly intense or powerful
harsh chemicals
b
: physically discomforting
The climate there is very harsh. a harsh winter
: unpleasant and difficult to accept or experience
the harsh realities of poverty a harsh reminder of the importance of wearing a seat belt
3
: excessively critical or negative
had some harsh words for her opponent a harsh critic
: unduly severe in making demands
harsh discipline
4
: lacking in aesthetic appeal or refinement : crude
a harsh and sometimes unpleasant book, barren of pretty touches— Brendan Gill
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for harsh
The first known use of harsh was in the 14th century
See more words from the same century