austere
1 of 1adjective/ɔˈstɪr/
Forms:more austere,most austere
1
simple in design or style and lacking embellishments
- The office was decorated in an austere style, with minimal furniture and a monochromatic color scheme.
- The monk's cell was austere, furnished only with a simple bed and a small wooden table.
- The institutional building was built in an austere style, emphasizing functionality over decoration.
- The artist's work was noted for its austere beauty, focusing on pure form and subtlety rather than elaborate detail.
- The architect's design for the new library was intentionally austere, reflecting a modern and functional approach.
2
showing strict discipline and restraint, especially in avoiding luxury or comfort
- He lived an austere life, rejecting all material comforts.
- The monk's austere habits included fasting and silence.
- Her austere routine left no room for leisure or indulgence.
- They admired his austere commitment to ethical living.
- The philosopher promoted an austere lifestyle as a path to clarity.
3
having a serious or rigid manner
- His austere expression made it clear he wasn't interested in small talk.
- The austere teacher gave strict instructions with no hint of kindness.
- Her austere demeanor made her seem unapproachable to the staff.
- His austere personality rarely showed signs of humor or warmth.
- The austere look on his face suggested he was upset or disapproving.