sever

UK: ˈsɛvə | US: ˈsɛvər

Definition

  1. vt. to cut or break apart

  2. vt. to end a connection or relationship

  3. vi. to become separated

Structure
se <apart>ver <to turn or divide>
Etymology

The word "sever" originates from the Latin separare (to separate), influenced by Old French sevrer (to wean, divide). The morpheme "se-" means "apart," while "-ver" derives from Latin vertere (to turn), implying a forceful division. Over time, it evolved in Middle English to emphasize clean breaks, whether physical (cutting) or abstract (ending ties).

Examples

  1. The surgeon had to sever the damaged artery.

  2. They decided to sever all business relations.

  3. The rope severed under tension.

  4. A single mistake can sever years of trust.

  5. The earthquake severed the town's power lines.