adjective
- serious, strict, and demanding exact conformity to rules
- showing disapproval or displeasure
noun
- the rear part of a ship or boat
Usage: nautical
Examples
- The stern teacher demanded complete silence during the exam.
- His father gave him a stern warning about staying out late.
- She had a stern expression on her face when she heard the news.
- The judge delivered a stern sentence to the convicted criminal.
- The captain stood at the stern of the ship, watching the wake.
- Passengers gathered at the stern to watch the sunset over the ocean.
- The stern of the yacht was decorated with colorful flags.