sɪˈvɪə 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). øøseverely adv. severity n. [F s÷vëre or L severus]