severed
Americanadjective
-
separated from the whole or divided into parts, as by cutting or the like.
The severed cables belonged to two internet companies.
-
(of ties or a relationship) broken off or dissolved.
One of the greatest tragedies we see in our work is the severed relationships between those in need and their family and friends.
-
Law. (of an estate, titles of a statute, etc.) divided into parts.
A practice known as severed property, or split estates, allows developers to keep or obtain mineral rights underneath privately owned land.
verb
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of severed
Explanation
Something severed is cut off from its whole. A severed rope turns into two detached and individual pieces. In a severed relationship, people lose communication with one another. To be severed is to be separated completely. Think of a tree branch being cut away from its trunk, or a connection being broken between two friends. The word comes from the Latin separare, meaning "to separate or pull apart." The adjective can refer to physical objects, like ropes or limbs, or to relationships and ties, such as friendships or contracts.
Vocabulary lists containing severed
Phineas Gage
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Compound Fracture
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The Black Girl Survives in This One
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He moved quickly to restore severed relations with the United States and introduced sweeping economic reforms, including cutting fuel subsidies that ravaged public finances.
From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026
The National Trust, supported by a long‑term Countryside Stewardship agreement, re‑established the natural contours of the land, replanting native species and reconnecting habitats that had been severed for generations.
From BBC • May 31, 2026
US and Taiwanese leaders have not spoken directly since 1979 - when Washington severed formal ties with Taiwan to recognise the Beijing government.
From BBC • May 21, 2026
Indiscernible shapes draped across mannequins, severed sleeves in electric hues, deconstructed pants and endless interactions of athletic forms in morphing neon suits.
From Los Angeles Times • May 11, 2026
“And your previous dreams, were they real too? Is Thornfield Hall a ruin? Am I severed from you by insuperable obstacles? Am I leaving you without a tear—without a kiss—without a word?”
From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
