Langimage
English

harshness

|harsh/ness|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈhɑrʃnəs/

🇬🇧

/ˈhɑːʃnəs/

(harsh)

rough and severe

Base FormComparativeSuperlativeNoun
harshharsherharshestharshness
Etymology
Etymology Information

'harsh' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'harsk,' where 'harsk' meant 'rough or coarse.'

Historical Evolution

'harsk' transformed into the modern English word 'harsh' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'rough or coarse,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'severe or stern.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality or condition of being harsh.

The harshness of the winter made it difficult for the plants to survive.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45