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

Chinese authorities have since "severed attack chains, upgraded protective measures, and eliminated potential threats."

Read more on Barron's

The closure will sever the primary link between the southern coastal edge of Orange County and the northern beach cities of San Diego County.

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A conservation group linked to Prince Harry and Chad's government have agreed to sign a new partnership - less than two weeks after the central African country severed ties with the organisation.

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His spine was severed by shrapnel, leaving him with a T10 complete spinal cord injury and paralysed from the waist down.

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The next day the ship sailed over the cable off of Gotland, and its dragging anchor severed it.

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Related Words

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