severance

noun

sev·​er·​ance ˈse-və-rən(t)s How to pronounce severance (audio)
ˈsev-rən(t)s
Synonyms of severancenext
: the act or process of severing : the state of being severed

Examples of severance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The company estimates that severance and other restructuring will cost between $140 million and $150 million for 2026. Queenie Wong, Los Angeles Times, 8 May 2026 The company is offering severance, health care benefits and career transition services to those affected. Lance Reynolds, Boston Herald, 7 May 2026 Rodríguez did not specify how much of the $240 corresponds to base salary — which determines pensions, severance and other labor benefits — and how much comes from discretionary bonuses that do not count toward long-term compensation. Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 1 May 2026 That’s equity valued at $517 million, $34 million in in cash severance and perquisites worth $44 million. Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 30 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for severance

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of severance was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Severance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/severance. Accessed 16 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

severance

noun
sev·​er·​ance ˈsev-(ə-)rən(t)s How to pronounce severance (audio)
: the act or process of severing : the state of being severed

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