Harsh

Harsh signifies something unpleasantly rough, severe, or cruel. It describes conditions, treatment, or judgments that are excessively demanding, unforgiving, or lacking in empathy.

It can refer to physical sensations that are abrasive or painful, or to emotional or social interactions that are abrasive and unkind.

The degree of unpleasantness associated with 'harsh' is significant; it goes beyond mere disagreement or mild discomfort, implying a significant level of negativity and potential for harm.

In essence, something that is harsh is difficult to endure and often leaves a negative impact.

Harsh meaning with examples

The desert climate was incredibly harsh, with scorching sun during the day and freezing temperatures at night, making survival an extreme challenge for any living thing.
The judge delivered a harsh sentence, emphasizing the gravity of the crime and the need for deterrence within the community to prevent reoccurrences.
Her criticism was far too harsh; while constructive feedback is valuable, her words were needlessly cutting and discouraging to the team involved.
The fabric felt harsh against my skin, causing irritation and discomfort due to its rough texture and coarse material making it very uncomfortable to wear.

Harsh Synonyms

austere bitter brutal callous cruel grim rough severe strict unforgiving

Harsh Antonyms

agreeable benevolent compassionate gentle kind lenient mild soft sympathetic tender

Harsh Crossword Answers

4 Letters

GRIM DOUR

5 Letters

STERN STARK ACERB ROUGH GRUFF CRUEL STONY

6 Letters

SEVERE UNKIND STRICT SAVAGE COARSE BRUTAL

7 Letters

GRATING AUSTERE RAUCOUS CAUSTIC JARRING

8 Letters

EXACTING STRIDENT ABRASIVE DESOLATE

9 Letters

DRACONIAN INCLEMENT STRINGENT

10 Letters

ASTRINGENT TYRANNICAL IRRITATING DISCORDANT

11 Letters

UNFORGIVING