Crossword Genius

Severity of exploit overwhelming first couple of sherpas (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

harshness

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'severity' is the definition.
(synonyms)

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(Other definitions for harshness that I've seen before include "rigour" , "Severity" , "Acerbity" , "cruel behaviour" , "acrimony" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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