adjective

austere

/ɔˈstɪr/ · say it: aw·STEER

severe or plain; without comfort or luxury

In Sophisticated Everyday

plain and severe; without ornament

In Describing & Comparing

In more detail

1. (adjective) very simple and plain, with no decoration or comfort

2. (adjective) serious and strict in manner or appearance; stern

Examples

1. The austere room had only a bed and a table.
2. The teacher's austere expression made the students nervous.

How to use austere

Austere describes both physical settings stripped of decoration and people who are serious or emotionally restrained. It often carries a tone of admiration for discipline or minimalism, though it can also suggest coldness or harshness. It is more formal and literary than 'plain' or 'strict'.

Common phrases

austere beauty
austere lifestyle
austere surroundings
austere expression
austere simplicity
austere measures

Synonyms

stark · severe · spartan · unadorned · ascetic

Opposites

ornate · indulgent · warm

Word family

austerely (adverb) · austerity (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse austere with 'austrite' or other false forms; also, some overuse it for merely 'simple' when a milder term would be more appropriate.

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