harsh
Pronounced:
/ˈhɑɚʃ/
Function:
adjectiveInflected forms:
harsh·er; harsh·estMeaning:
[also more harsh; most harsh] 1 a : unpleasant and difficult to accept or experience ▪ The climate there is very harsh. ▪ We've had an extremely harsh winter. ▪ a harsh environment ▪ It's time for her to face the harsh realities of this situation. ▪ The accident serves as a harsh reminder of the importance of wearing a seat belt. b : having an unpleasant or harmful effect because of great strength or force : too intense or powerful ▪ harsh colors ▪ a harsh [=shrill] whistle/voice ▪ The lighting in the room was very harsh. ▪ harsh chemicals/detergents
2 a : severe or cruel : not kind ▪ harsh discipline ▪ a harsh disciplinarian ▪ The state has established harsh penalties for drug dealers. ▪ She has been criticized for her harsh treatment of his students. ▪ He was sentenced to a harsh prison term. b : very critical : strongly negative ▪ He had harsh words for his opponent. ▪ harsh language ▪ She has faced some extremely harsh criticism. ▪ He has been one of her harshest critics.
2 a : severe or cruel : not kind ▪ harsh discipline ▪ a harsh disciplinarian ▪ The state has established harsh penalties for drug dealers. ▪ She has been criticized for her harsh treatment of his students. ▪ He was sentenced to a harsh prison term. b : very critical : strongly negative ▪ He had harsh words for his opponent. ▪ harsh language ▪ She has faced some extremely harsh criticism. ▪ He has been one of her harshest critics.
—harsh·ly adverb [more harsh*ly; most harsh*ly] ▪ She promised to deal harshly with all criminals. ▪ He treats his students harshly. ▪ The room was harshly lit.
—harsh·ness noun [noncount]