1. the quality of being rough, unpleasant, or severe in manner, treatment, or conditions
2. the quality of being unpleasantly rough or grating to the senses

Examples

• The harshness of the winter weather made travel dangerous.
• She was shocked by the harshness of his criticism.
• The harshness of the desert climate requires special preparation.
• His voice had a harshness that made everyone uncomfortable.
• The teacher’s harshness toward struggling students was concerning.
• The harshness of the fabric irritated her sensitive skin.
• They couldn’t tolerate the harshness of the bright lights.