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 company beat on the top line but missed Wall Street’s earnings forecast on the legal and severance-related charges. — Todd Spangler, Variety, 29 July 2026

The purpose of the meeting was to be offered severance of $102,500 as the Globes phased out its model of paying its awards voters. — Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 28 July 2026

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

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