This is the 661st most frequent Chinese word.
严
Strict; severe.
In this sentence, '严' (yán) is used as an adjective meaning 'strict', denoting the teacher's approach to discipline and expectations.
这位老师非常严，学生们都很尊敬她。
This teacher is very strict, and all the students respect her.
In this context, '严' (yán) is part of the compound '严酷', translating to 'severe', describing the intensity of the snowstorm.
风雪如此严酷，旅人们只能留在屋内取暖。
The snowstorm is so severe that the travelers can only stay indoors to stay warm.
Here, '严' (yán) is part of the compound '严守' which means 'strictly follow', emphasizing the importance of adhering to rules.