sever

[sev-er]

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.

verb (used without object)

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

sever

/ 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)

Word History and Origins

Origin of sever¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of sever¹

C14 severen, from Old French severer, from Latin sēparāre to _separate

Example Sentences

It may be necessary to sever ties to well-liked financial advisers or brokerage accounts.

Read more on MarketWatch

The army-aligned government severed diplomatic ties with the Gulf country in May, accusing it in particular of supplying drones to the RSF.

Read more on Barron's

Communication across Jamaica has been all but severed, with power lines and mobile networks down in much of the southwest.

Read more on BBC

The film chronicled a particularly hectic day in the life of a young trans man in New York City, as he struggles to rekindle old relationships he’d severed since he’d transitioned.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Western nations are increasingly concerned that Russia might try to sever critical undersea cables as part of its hybrid warfare – causing chaos and disruption to internet communications.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

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