harshness

noun

Definition of harshnessnext
1
as in bitterness
a harsh or sharp quality there was a harshness about her voice that made her an unlikely but surprisingly evocative singer of torch songs

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in severity
the quality or state of being demanding or unyielding (as in discipline or criticism) was surprised at the harshness of the choirmaster's criticism, since he was usually pretty easygoing

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Examples Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for harshness
  1. severity
  2. bite
  3. edge
Noun
  • Now, Miami head coach Mike McDaniel has offered a huge update on the severity of Waddle's injury.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 17 Dec. 2024
  • The release noted that front-end height determines the point of impact on a pedestrian’s body, which is a key factor in the severity of injuries.
    Eric D. Lawrence, Detroit Free Press, 10 Dec. 2024
Definition of severity
Noun
  • Located just below Tak, Izakaya is ideal for quick bites of sushi and sips of sake in a casual setting.
    Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 15 Dec. 2024
  • Betting on one brand gives you only one bite at the apple.
    Gary Stern, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024
Definition of bite
Noun
  • In contrast, Venus-like planets on the inner edge of extrasolar habitable zones are thought to have what is known as stagnant lid geophysics in which there is no systematic carbon recycling of the planet’s atmosphere.
    Bruce Dorminey, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024
  • Outlook: The Gators’ depth on the edge dwindles with the exits of Pyburn and Searcy.
    Edgar Thompson, Orlando Sentinel, 23 Dec. 2024
Definition of edge
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Thesaurus Entries Near harshness

harshly

harshness

harum-scarum

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Cite this Entry

“Harshness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/harshness. Accessed 31 Dec. 2024.

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More from Merriam-Webster on harshness

Nglish: Translation of harshness for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of harshness for Arabic Speakers

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