serious and unrelenting, especially in the assertion of authority and exercise of discipline, the rear part of a ship or boat

a stiff upper lip and a stern chin, a stern test, to be stern with someone

stern chase, from stem to stern, stern of beef

Formal and Informal Expressions of stern

In different contexts, you can replace 'stern' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'strict, harsh' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'tough, no-nonsense' is a commonplace synonym.

stern: Explore its Definition & Usage

stern Definition

1serious and unrelenting, especially in the assertion of authority and exercise of discipline
2the rear part of a ship or boat

Using stern: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "stern" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The teacher gave a stern warning to the students.
Example
The company has a stern policy against harassment.
Example
He had a stern expression on his face.
Example
The ship's stern was damaged in the storm.

stern Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for stern

Antonyms for stern

Idioms Using stern

a stiff upper lip and a stern chin
to show courage and determination in the face of adversity
Example
She faced the criticism with a stiff upper lip and a stern chin.
a stern test
a difficult challenge or examination
Example
The final exam was a stern test of the students' knowledge.
to be stern with someone
to be strict or severe with someone
Example
The coach was stern with the players during practice.

Phrases with stern

stern chase
a pursuit of a fleeing vessel from behind
Example
The pirate ship was caught after a long stern chase.
from stem to stern
from one end of a ship to the other
Example
The sailors inspected the ship from stem to stern before setting sail.
stern of beef
a large cut of beef taken from the hindquarters of a cow
Example
The restaurant served a delicious stern of beef for dinner.

Origins of stern

from Old English 'styrne', meaning 'severe'

📌

Summary: stern in Brief

The term 'stern' [stɜːn] refers to a serious and unrelenting attitude, often in the assertion of authority or exercise of discipline. It can also refer to the rear part of a ship or boat. Examples of its use include 'The teacher gave a stern warning to the students.' and 'The ship's stern was damaged in the storm.' Phrases like 'stern chase' and idioms like 'a stern test' further illustrate the term's meanings.