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severity definition

se·ver·ity (sə ver′ə tē)

noun

  1. the quality or condition of being severe; specif.,
    1. strictness; harshness
    2. gravity, as of expression
    3. rigid accuracy
    4. extreme plainness or restraint, as in style
    5. keenness, as of pain; intensity
    6. rigorous or trying character
  2. pl. severities -·ties something severe, as a punishment

Etymology: Fr sévérité < L severitas

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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