: the quality or state of being severe : the condition of being very bad, serious, unpleasant, or harsh the severity of the climate the severity of the punishment Medication can help shorten the illness and lessen its severity.

What word class is severity?

severely, adverbsevereness or severity (sɪˈvɛrɪtɪ), noun.

What is the full meaning of severe?

1a : strict in judgment, discipline, or government. b : of a strict or stern bearing or manner : austere. 2 : rigorous in restraint, punishment, or requirement : stringent. 3 : strongly critical or condemnatory a severe critic.