1. having a plain and simple appearance or style; without decoration or luxury
2. strict or severe in manner, attitude, or expression
3. having few pleasures or comforts; harsh or difficult

Examples

• The monastery had an austere interior with bare walls and simple furniture.
• Her austere expression showed she was not pleased with our behavior.
• The family lived an austere lifestyle, avoiding unnecessary expenses.
• The judge’s austere demeanor intimidated everyone in the courtroom.
• The austere mountain landscape was both beautiful and forbidding.
• His austere office contained only a desk, chair, and filing cabinet.