verb
sever
SEV-er/ˈsevər/
To cut completely through a connection.
The sharp blade severs the rope with one clean cut.
Etymology
Latin se- “apart” and parare “prepare” formed separare, meaning “pull apart.” Sever preserves that idea of separation, and separate itself comes from the same Latin verb.
In context
he had to sever Constantinople's vital lifeline to the outside world.
More examples
- Falling branches severed the power line.
- The company decided to sever ties with its supplier.
- Severing contact with an old friend can be painful.
Forms
sever · severs · severed · severing
severance noun — The complete ending of a connection.
Similar words
- cut
- Can mean making an opening without completely separating anything.
- disconnect
- Emphasizes breaking a link, often without cutting physical material.