sev ‧ er /ˈsevə $ -ər/ BrE AmE verb formal
[ Date: 1300-1400 ; Language: Old French ; Origin: severer , from Latin separare ; ⇨ ↑ separate 2 ]
1 . [intransitive and transitive] to cut through something completely, separating it into two parts, or to become cut in this way SYN cut off :
Martin’s hand was severed in the accident.
a severed rope
2 . [transitive] to end a relationship with someone, or a connection with something, especially because of a disagreement SYN break off
sever ties/relations/connections/links etc (with/between somebody)
The two countries severed diplomatic relations.
She had severed all contact with her ex-husband.
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In everyday English, people usually say cut off rather than sever :
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The end of his finger had been cut off.
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The children's father had cut off all contact with them.