# sever

/ˈsɛvɝ/ (US) · /sˈɛvɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sever
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. to cut off physically

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to cut through something completely so that it is no longer attached.

For teachers: to separate a part from a whole by cutting or using sudden force. Transitive — requires a direct object.

- The worker accidentally severed the power cable while digging in the garden.
- The surgeon was forced to sever the damaged nerve to prevent the spread of the infection to the rest of the limb.

### 2. to end a relationship

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to end a connection or relationship with someone or something completely.

For teachers: to break off or terminate a relationship, connection, or association abruptly and permanently.

- The company decided to sever all ties with the supplier after the scandal.
- Following the diplomatic dispute, the two nations moved to sever formal relations and recalled their ambassadors immediately.

### 3. legal separation

verb · CEFR C2 · Technical · Formal

to separate a legal claim or a joint ownership into parts.

For teachers: to divide or separate a legal interest, such as a joint tenancy or a combined court case. Often used in the context of property law or criminal proceedings.

- The judge decided to sever the two cases so they could be tried separately.
- The co-owners acted to sever the joint tenancy, effectively converting their shared interest into a tenancy in common.

## Examples

- The company decided to sever all ties with the dishonest supplier.
- The accident was so severe that it threatened to sever the main power line to the hospital.
- In legal terms, the court may choose to sever a specific clause from a contract if it is found to be unenforceable, while leaving the rest of the agreement intact.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.