1. the quality or state of being severe; harshness or strictness
The severity of the punishment was questioned by human rights groups.
A severidade do castigo foi questionada por grupos de direitos humanos.
2. the degree of seriousness or intensity of something, especially an illness or problem
The severity of the storm caused widespread damage.
A severidade da tempestade causou danos generalizados.
3. plainness or simplicity in appearance or style
The severity of the architecture gave the building a modern aesthetic.
A severidade da arquitetura deu ao edifício uma estética moderna.