Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

Definition of severe adjective from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

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severe

adjective
severe pronunciation English sɪˈvɪə(r) severe pronunciation American sɪˈvɪr
severer, severest
 
 

very bad

1 extremely bad or seriousa severe handicapHis injuries are severe.severe weather conditionsa severe winter (= one during which the weather conditions are extremely bad)The party suffered severe losses during the last election.a severe shortage of qualified staffsevere learning difficultiesThe victim suffered severe brain damage.a severe case of woodwormStrikes are causing severe disruption to all train services.
 

punishment

2 severe (on/with somebody) punishing somebody in an extreme way when they break a particular set of rules
Synonym
harshThe courts are becoming more severe on young offenders.a severe punishment/sentence
 

not kind

3 not kind or sympathetic and showing disapproval of somebody/something
Synonym
sterna severe expressionShe was a severe woman who seldom smiled.
 

very difficult

4 extremely difficult and requiring a lot of skill or ability
Synonym
stiffThe marathon is a severe test of stamina.
 

style/appearance/clothing

5 (disapproving) extremely plain and lacking any decorationModern furniture is a little too severe for my taste.Her hair was short and severe.
severely
severely pronunciation English severely pronunciation American
adverbseverely disabledareas severely affected by unemploymentAnyone breaking the law will be severely punished.a severely critical reportHer hair was tied severely in a bun. severity
severity pronunciation English sɪˈverəti severity pronunciation American sɪˈverəti
noun [uncountable]A prison sentence should match the severity of the crime.The chances of a full recovery will depend on the severity of her injuries.the severity of the problemHe frowned with mock severity.The elaborate facade contrasts strongly with the severity of the interior.