harsh Synonym

severe - stern - strict - rigorous - austere - tough - unkind - cruel brutal - ruthless - callous - hard - unforgiving - relentless - unsparing - pitiless - merciless - grim - fierce - abrasive - rough - coarse - grating - jarring - biting - cutting - stinging - scathing - caustic - acerbic - acrimonious - vitriolic - trenchant - mordant - sharp - bitter - sour - tart - acerb - stringent - exacting - demanding - draconian - oppressive - tyrannical - despotic - authoritarian - iron-fisted - unyielding - inflexible

The word 'harsh' refers to something unpleasantly rough or jarring to the senses, or cruel and severe in manner or effect. It can describe textures, sounds, lights, conditions, opinions, or even the environment.