harsh definition

1. unpleasantly stern
• examples: wild and harsh country full of hot sand and cactus
• examples: the nomad life is rough and hazardous
2. disagreeable to the senses
• examples: the harsh cry of a blue jay
• examples: harsh cognac
• examples: the harsh white light makes you screw up your eyes
• examples: harsh irritating smoke filled the hallway
3. unkind or cruel or uncivil
• examples: had harsh words
• examples: a harsh and unlovable old tyrant
• examples: a rough answer
4. severe
• examples: a harsh penalty
5. sharply disagreeable; rigorous
• examples: the harsh facts of court delays
• examples: an abrasive character