Sev·er v. t. [imp. & p. p. Severed p. pr. & vb. n. Severing.]
  1. To separate, as one from another; to cut off from something; to divide; to part in any way, especially by violence, as by cutting, rending, etc.; as, to sever the head from the body.
     The angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just.   --Matt. xiii. 49.
  2. To cut or break open or apart; to divide into parts; to cut through; to disjoin; as, to sever the arm or leg.
     Our state can not be severed; we are one.   --Milton.
  3. To keep distinct or apart; to except; to exempt.
     I will sever in that day the land of Goshen, in which my people dwell, that no swarms of flies shall be there.   --Ex. viii. 22.
  4. Law To disunite; to disconnect; to terminate; as, to sever an estate in joint tenancy.
  severing
       n : the act of severing [syn: severance]