Meaning & use
stern
Last updated
Strict, serious, and uncompromising in manner or attitude.
See it in a sentence
The teacher gave the students a stern warning about turning in late homework.
Despite his stern expression, the coach was known for encouraging his players privately.
A note on using this word
Stern is also a noun meaning the rear part of a ship; context makes clear which meaning is intended.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
lenientgentle
Another way to use it
2. noun
The rear end of a ship or boat.
Waves crashed against the stern as the boat pulled away from the dock.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “stern”, then compare your use with the examples above.
Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.