What does sever mean?
To sever is to make a complete and often decisive break. The word most commonly describes cutting or dividing something physically, as in severing a rope, cable, or limb, but it is also used in formal contexts for ending relationships and connections: severing diplomatic relations, severing ties, or severing a contract. Its connotations are finality and force; a severed connection is not merely loosened or temporarily interrupted, but cut completely. Because the verb has a strong sense of separation, it is especially effective when describing the abrupt end of cooperation, communication, or formal links. Although ordinary words such as cut and break can cover similar ideas, sever often adds a sense of deliberateness, severity, or irreversible division.
To cut or divide something completely, especially with a single stroke or blow.
"The blade severed the rope cleanly."
Often transitive, with the thing being cut or divided as the object.
To bring an end to a relationship, connection, communication, or formal association.
"The committee voted to sever its ties with the organization."
Common in formal and legal contexts.
To become cut apart or disconnected.
"The pipe severed when the building shifted."
Less common than the transitive use, but standard in literary and technical writing.
To sever is to make a clean break—sometimes literally, and sometimes between people or institutions.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sever come from?
The English verb comes through Old French sever from Latin severare, meaning “to separate” or “to make distinct.” Latin severare is related to severus, “strict” or “severe,” a root that also produced English words such as severe and severity. The verb entered English with senses involving cutting apart and, by extension, breaking connections or relationships.
Related word forms
How sever is actually used
The word is formal and somewhat literary in many contexts. In general use, it often describes the deliberate or complete ending of a relationship, connection, or communication.
Easily confused with sever
To sever is to cut or break something apart, whereas severe describes something serious, harsh, or intense.