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

As a result of the workforce reduction, the company expects to incur charges of approximately $450 million to $500 million, consisting primarily of severance payments, employee benefits and noncash expenses related to share vesting, according to a securities filing. —Annie Palmer, CNBC, 26 Feb. 2026

The total amount reflects earned leave accumulated during Smith's tenure and does not include any additional severance beyond contractual obligations. —Jack Lowenstein, CBS News, 21 Feb. 2026

This severance from Turkey has created a phantom limb experience for me and my brothers. —Literary Hub, 10 Feb. 2026

The voluntary severance program is open to full- and part-time employees who aren’t directly involved with patient care, Memorial Hermann said. —Julian Gill, Houston Chronicle, 6 Feb. 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