to cut off completely or remove by cutting, to break apart or divide something into pieces, to end a relationship or connection with someone

severance pay, sever the head from the body, sever the knot

Formal and Informal Expressions of sever

In different contexts, you can replace 'sever' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'cut off, disconnect' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'chop off, break off' is a commonplace synonym.

sever: Explore its Definition & Usage

sever Definition

1to cut off completely or remove by cutting
2to break apart or divide something into pieces
3to end a relationship or connection with someone

Using sever: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "sever" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The hurricane severed the power lines.
Example
He severed his ties with the company after the scandal.
Example
The surgeon had to sever the damaged nerve.
Example
The divorce severed their marriage.

sever Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for sever

Antonyms for sever

join
unite
connect

Phrases with sever

severance pay
money paid to an employee who is laid off or fired from a job
Example
The company offered him a generous severance pay after he was let go.
sever the head from the body
to decapitate someone
Example
In medieval times, it was common to sever the head from the body of criminals as a form of punishment.
sever the knot
to solve a difficult problem or situation
Example
The mediator helped the two sides to sever the knot and reach a compromise.

Origins of sever

from Old French 'sevrer', meaning 'to wean'

📌

Summary: sever in Brief

The verb 'sever' [ˈsɛvər] means to cut off completely or divide into pieces. It can also refer to ending a relationship or connection with someone. Examples include 'The hurricane severed the power lines' and 'He severed his ties with the company after the scandal.' Phrases like 'severance pay' and 'sever the head from the body' extend the term's usage.