severer; severest
1
a
: very bad, serious, or unpleasant
severe weather conditions
The storm caused severe damage to the roof.
a severe economic depression
The patient is in severe pain.
children with severe learning disabilities
In the most severe cases, the disease can lead to blindness.
b
: causing a lot of physical pain or suffering
He suffered a severe head injury.
a severe cold/infection
severe burns/wounds
2
: very harsh
He faces severe penalties for his actions.
The punishment was severe.
severe criticism
a severe critic
3
: requiring great effort
The war was a severe test of his leadership.
a severe challenge
4
: very formal, strict, and serious
a severe young woman
He's very generous despite his somewhat severe manner.
5
: not having much decoration : very plain
a very severe style of architecture
severe clothing
a severe hairstyle
Cite this Entry
“Severe.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/severe. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.
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