adjective
1.
given to or characterized by strict discipline and firm restraint
treated all the students with severe impartiality
Synonyms: ascetic, astringent, austere, mortified, stern
Related Word: exacting, heavy-handed, onerous, oppressive; disciplined, iron-willed, self-disciplined; inflexible, restrictive, rigid, rigorous, strict, stringent, uncompromising, unyielding
Contrasted words: easy, easygoing, gentle, mild, soft; clement, forbearing, indulgent, lax, lenient, merciful
Antonyms: tender, tolerant
2.
Synonyms: grim 2, austere, bleak, dour, hard, harsh, stringent
Related Word: serious, sober, stern
3.
of a kind to cause discomfort or hardship
a severe winter storm
Synonyms: bitter, brutal, hard, harsh, inclement, intemperate, rigorous, rugged
Related Word: crimpy, unpleasant; forbidding, hostile, inhospitable; bleak, disagreeable, grim; painful, raw, sharp, smart; blistering, extreme, intense, savage; blustering, blustery, stormy, wintry
Contrasted words: balmy, calm, equable, gentle, moderate, soft, temperate
Antonyms: mild
4.
Synonyms: hard 6, arduous, difficult, effortful, heavy, laborious, serious, strenuous, toilsome, tough
5.
Synonyms: serious 2, grave, heavy, weighty
Related Word: consequential; dear, sore