adj. 1 rigorous, strict, and harsh in attitude or treatment (a severe critic; severe discipline). 2 serious, critical (a severe shortage). 3 vehement or forceful (a severe storm). 4 extreme (in an unpleasant quality) (a severe winter; severe cold). 5 arduous or exacting; making great demands on energy, skill, etc. (severe competition). 6 unadorned; plain in style (severe dress). severely adv. severity n.
[ F sévère or L severus ]