sever

American  

[sev-er] / ˈsɛv ər /

verb (used with object)

1. to separate (a part) from the whole, as by cutting or the like.

2. to divide into parts, especially forcibly; cleave.

3. to break off or dissolve (ties, relations, etc.).

4. Law. to divide into parts; disunite (an estate, titles of a statute, etc.).

5. to distinguish; discriminate between.

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verb (used without object)

1. to become separated from each other; become divided into parts.

sever British  

/ ˈsɛvə /

verb

1. to put or be put apart; separate

2. to divide or be divided into parts

3. (tr) to break off or dissolve (a tie, relationship, etc)

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Etymology

Origin of sever

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English severen, from Middle French sev(e)rer; separate

Example Sentences

After crushing a Jewish revolt in the second century, Emperor Hadrian sought to sever the Jewish connection to the land by renaming the province “Syria Palaestina”—a name derived from the long-vanished Philistines.

From The Wall Street Journal

While many ties between Russia and the West have been severed over Moscow's war in Ukraine, cooperation has continued on board the space station.

From Barron's

Insiders say even if CBS News’ ties to Attia are not publicly severed, it’s unlikely he will ever be seen on the air.

From Los Angeles Times

At the start of the 1970s, before the dollar’s link to gold was severed, an ounce might have gotten you an off-the-rack seersucker at J.C.

From The Wall Street Journal

The bighorn herd that straddles the frontier will be severed.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abandon
• break off
• dissolve
• put an end to
• separate
• terminate