/ ɒˈstɪə(r); ɔːˈst-; NAmE ɔːˈstɪr/ adjective
1.
simple and plain; without any decorations :
her austere bedroom with its simple narrow bed
2.
( of a person ) strict and serious in appearance and behaviour :
My father was a distant, austere man.
3.
allowing nothing that gives pleasure; not comfortable :
the monks' austere way of life
► aus·tere·ly adverb
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : via Old French from Latin austerus , from Greek austēros severe.