austere

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Dictionary definition of austere

Stern, strict, or lacking ornamentation or luxury.
"The austere courtroom set the tone for a serious and somber trial."

Detailed meaning of austere

It refers to a quality of simplicity, seriousness, and often a strict adherence to rules or principles. When applied to a person, an austere individual is typically characterized as reserved, disciplined, and unyielding. In terms of aesthetics, an austere design or environment is minimalistic, emphasizing clean lines and functionality while avoiding unnecessary embellishments. This adjective conveys a sense of seriousness, restraint, and a focus on essentials, often associated with a lack of indulgence or excess.

Example sentences containing austere

1. The monastery had an austere atmosphere, with bare walls and simple furnishings.
2. The budget cuts forced the department to adopt a more austere spending policy.
3. Her austere lifestyle was admirable, as she donated most of her income to charities.
4. The room was decorated in an austere manner, with minimalistic furniture and neutral colors.
5. The austere landscape of the desert was both haunting and beautiful.
6. He followed an austere diet, abstaining from sugars and processed foods.

History and etymology of austere

The adjective 'austere' has an etymology rooted in Latin, tracing its origins to the Latin word 'austerus,' which meant 'harsh' or 'severe.' This Latin term was often used to describe things that were stern or strict in nature, lacking ornamentation or luxury. The concept of severity extended to various aspects, including character, appearance, and lifestyle. In Old French, 'austerus' became 'austere,' and the word retained its sense of strictness and simplicity. As it entered Middle English, 'austere' continued to describe things or individuals characterized by sternness, simplicity, and a lack of indulgence in luxury. The etymology of 'austere' underscores its historical connection to a stern and unadorned quality, emphasizing its enduring meaning of strictness and simplicity.

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Further usage examples of austere

1. The headmaster had an austere demeanor, and seldom showed emotion.
2. The soldiers endured austere conditions, with limited rations and harsh weather.
3. The fashion show presented a collection of austere outfits, emphasizing clean lines and muted colors.
4. Many early pioneers led austere lives due to the scarcity of resources.
5. The company's headquarters had an austere design, reflecting its values of efficiency and simplicity.
6. She chose an austere, yet elegant, dress for the formal event.
7. The austere teacher maintained discipline in the classroom.
8. Their lifestyle was deliberately austere, free from excess.
9. The monastery's architecture was characterized by its austere simplicity.
10. His austere demeanor hid a kind and generous heart.
11. The judge's austere ruling left no room for leniency.
12. The office decor had an austere and minimalist design.
13. The wartime rationing led to an austere way of life.
14. Her writing style was known for its austere elegance.
15. The austere menu featured only simple, wholesome ingredients.
16. The CEO's office was known for its austere furnishings.
17. The desert landscape had an austere beauty.
18. The candidate's campaign promised an austere approach to spending.
19. The novel's protagonist led an austere existence by choice.
20. The museum's exhibit showcased the artist's austere paintings.
21. The government implemented an austere budget to cut expenses.
22. His austere wardrobe consisted of plain, dark suits.
23. The prison cell had an austere atmosphere.
24. The austere philosophy emphasized inner reflection over material wealth.
25. The old castle had an austere grandeur.
26. The austere lifestyle of the monks was marked by self-discipline.