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]