Langimage
English

harshly

|harsh/ly|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈhɑrʃli/

🇬🇧

/ˈhɑːʃli/

(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 cruel.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a severe or cruel manner.

The teacher spoke harshly to the students.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39