The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

austerity

IPA

Dictionary definition of austerity

Voluntary restraint or increased frugality especially in a stern and serious manner or attitude.
"The company implemented austerity measures to stay afloat during the recession."

Detailed meaning of austerity

Austerity measures often involve cutting back on public services, welfare programs, or other forms of government spending, and they are often implemented during times of economic crisis or in response to high levels of debt. The word can also be used to describe a situation of severe lack or scarcity, especially in relation to resources or necessities such as food, shelter, or money.

Example sentences containing austerity

1. They lived a simple life of austerity with very few creature comforts.
2. The monks lead a simple life of peace and austerity.
3. After the war, the nation embarked upon a period of strict austerity.
4. The news reader spoke in a manner of formal austerity.
5. The region embarked upon an era of strict austerity.
6. The government announced an austerity package to address the balance of payments deficit.

History and etymology of austerity

The noun 'austerity' has its roots in the Latin word 'austeritas,' which stems from 'austerus,' meaning 'severe' or 'harsh.' In ancient Rome, 'austeritas' was employed to describe a stern and rigid way of life or demeanor, often associated with self-discipline and strict adherence to moral principles. This sense of strictness and seriousness carried forward into the English language, where 'austerity' came to signify voluntary restraint and increased frugality, typically characterized by a serious and unyielding attitude towards one's lifestyle and expenditures. The etymology of 'austerity' thus reflects its historical connection to a rigorous and stern approach to personal conduct and financial matters.

Quiz: Find the meaning of austerity

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of austerity

1. He was a phlegmatic and authoritative man with an air of stolid austerity.
2. The government implemented austerity measures in order to address the country's budget deficit.
3. The family had to live with austerity after the father lost his job.
4. The country has been in a state of austerity for years, with high unemployment and little economic growth.
5. The austerity measures have been met with protests from citizens who are unhappy with the cuts to public services.
6. The family had to endure austerity during the war, with little food and few resources.
7. The government's austerity measures have been criticized for disproportionately affecting the poor and vulnerable.
8. The company's austerity plan included layoffs and salary cuts for all employees.
9. The austerity measures have caused widespread discontent among the public.
10. The family's austerity lifestyle meant they had to do without many luxuries.
11. The country has been in a state of austerity since the economic crisis began.
12. The government's austerity measures have been successful in reducing the budget deficit, but at a high cost to the public.
13. During tough times, the government imposed austerity measures to reduce spending.
14. His lifestyle reflects a commitment to austerity and minimalism.
15. The company faced financial difficulties, leading to a period of austerity.
16. Austerity can be challenging, but it can also lead to personal growth.
17. The monks practiced austerity, living with few material possessions.
18. Economic austerity can have both short-term pain and long-term gain.
19. In times of crisis, many people turn to austerity to save money.
20. The leader's commitment to austerity earned the respect of the nation.
21. Austerity measures often involve cutting public services and benefits.
22. The country's economic austerity program aimed to reduce debt.
23. Embracing austerity allowed her to save for future goals.
24. Austerity can lead to a deeper appreciation of life's simple pleasures.