austere

Etymology

From Ancient Greek αὐστηρός (austērós, “bitter, harsh”), having the specific meaning "making the tongue dry" (originally used of fruits, wines), related to αὔω (aúō, “to singe”), αὖος (aûos, “dry”).

adj

1. Grim or severe in manner or appearance
   The headmistress was an austere old woman.
2. Lacking decoration; trivial; not extravagant or gaudy
   The interior of the church was as austere as the parishioners were dour.