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

Part-time and full-time employees have both been offered severance in two installments, according to the employees interviewed. — Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 16 July 2026

The mother is such an integral part of the daughter’s consciousness that severance is impossible. — Marc Weingarten, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2026

His termination stemmed from an internal dispute with CBS leadership, USA TODAY learned on June 2, which left him without severance or other benefits effective immediately. — Edward Segarra, USA Today, 1 July 2026

The case follows another severance lawsuit brought by Newton’s predecessor, Mike Downs, that ended with Cabarrus County paying him $489,000 to settle the dispute. — Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 26 June 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