Austerity

Noun

Definition: The quality or state of being austere; lack of luxury or adornment; simplicity or severity in appearance, manner, or attitude.

Definition: Extreme economy, especially as imposed on a nation during times of financial hardship.

Synonyms: Severity, Strictness, Plainness, Frugality

Antonyms: Luxury, Extravagance, Opulence

Examples:

The monastery embodied a sense of austerity with its simple furnishings and lack of decorative elements.
The government implemented austerity measures to reduce the nation's debt burden.

Mnemonics:

Think of austerity as the opposite of luxury and extravagance.
Austerity is often associated with plain and simple living.

Etymology:

Origin:

From French "austérité," from Latin "austerus" meaning "severe" or "harsh."

Historical Usage:

The term originated in the late 14th century and has been used to describe both the quality of being austere and the implementation of strict economic measures in times of financial strain.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Austerity measures"

Explanation:

Refers to actions taken by governments or organizations to reduce spending, often involving budget cuts, tax increases, and reforms to address economic challenges.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Austerity only refers to strictness of manner or attitude.

Explanation:

While one definition of austerity relates to severity of demeanor, it is often used in the context of economic policies and frugal living.