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

In April 1788, according to one story, some boys playing near a hospital in New York City saw a severed arm dangling from a window.

From The Wall Street Journal

Unfamiliar districts can drive incumbents to early retirement by severing their connection with well-established constituencies.

From Salon

The historic relationship appears to have been severed.

From MarketWatch

The historic relationship appears to have been severed.

From MarketWatch

Highway 2, the most direct route from greater Seattle, where nearly 60% of the money spent in Leavenworth originates—and severed access to a major ski resort.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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