severability
The legal principle that if one part of a contract is invalid, the rest remains enforceable
Examples
In a meeting
“The contract includes a severability clause to ensure remaining terms stay in effect if one is challenged.”
Over coffee
“The severability of the agreement means we can drop that one problematic section.”
Why this word
separability
Severability is the specific legal doctrine that invalid provisions can be separated from valid ones; separability is generic
divisibility
Divisibility is general ability to divide; severability is the legal principle allowing contract parts to stand independently
independence
Independence is broad autonomy; severability specifically addresses whether contract clauses can survive if others fail
Usage tip
Essential in contracts; means that invalid provisions can be removed without voiding the entire agreement.
Etymology
From 'sever' (Latin 'separare' meaning 'to separate') + '-ability' suffix
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
nullify
To make something legally void or completely ineffective
enjoin
To legally prohibit or order someone to do or not do something
proscribe
To officially forbid or condemn something
quorum
The minimum number of members required to be present for valid proceedings
recuse
To remove oneself from a decision due to conflict of interest or bias
culpable
Deserving blame or held responsible for wrongdoing