Severance

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late Middle English: from Anglo-Norman French, based on Latin separare (see sever).

wiktionary

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From Middle English severaunce, from Anglo-Norman, Old French sevrance, from sevrer.

etymonline

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severance (n.)

early 15c., from Anglo-French, from Old French sevrance "separation, parting," from sevrer (see sever). Meaning "discharge from employment contract" is attested from 1941. Severance pay attested by 1942.