austere
UK: ɒˈstɪə | US: ɔːˈstɪr
adj. severe or strict in manner, attitude, or appearance
adj. plain and without decoration or unnecessary things
adj. (of living conditions) harsh or frugal
The word "austere" traces back to the Greek "austēros," meaning "harsh" or "severe," originally describing a rough taste (e.g., unripe fruit). It entered Latin as "austerus," retaining its stern connotations, and later passed into Old French as "austere" before reaching English. The morpheme "auster" reflects the core idea of strictness or simplicity, while the silent "-e" is a vestige of its Romance language adaptation. Historically, the word evolved from describing physical harshness (e.g., bitter flavors) to abstract rigor (e.g., discipline or minimalism).
The monk’s austere lifestyle included fasting and silence.
Her office was austere, with only a desk and a chair.
The judge’s austere demeanor intimidated the courtroom.
The building’s austere design reflected its functional purpose.
During the war, people lived under austere conditions.