severed

UK: ˈsɛvəd | US: ˈsɛvərd

Definition

  1. adj. cut off or separated, especially forcibly or abruptly

  2. vt. past tense and past participle of "sever" (to cut or break apart)

Structure
sever <to cut>ed <past participle suffix>
Etymology

The word "severed" traces back to Latin separare, combining se- (apart) and parare (to prepare). Over time, Old French sevrer simplified the form while retaining the core meaning of separation. The suffix -ed was added in English to mark the past tense or participle, creating a vivid image of something forcibly cut apart.

Examples

  1. The rope was severed by a sharp knife.

  2. His arm was nearly severed in the accident.

  3. The treaty severed diplomatic ties between the nations.

  4. She felt emotionally severed from her family after the argument.

  5. The storm severed power lines across the city.