austerity
🇺🇸
/ɔːˈsterəti/
🇬🇧
/ɒˈsterəti/
when the government cuts spending to help control the economy
After the war, there was a period of austerity.
a simple and plain style or appearance
The room had an air of austerity with its plain white walls and simple furniture.
a strict and serious manner or appearance
The teacher's austerity made the students feel a little afraid.
a lifestyle with few comforts or pleasures
The monks lived in great austerity, with simple food and plain clothing.
things that are part of a simple lifestyle with few comforts
The austerities of the camp included cold showers and basic food.