Stern

Pronunciation: /ˈstɜːrn/

Stern (adjective)

  1. showing strictness and seriousness, not smiling or joking.
  2. describing a situation that is difficult or severe.

Examples

  • The teacher gave a stern warning to the class.
  • His stern expression made everyone quiet.

Common collocations: stern warning, stern expression, stern voice, stern test, stern challenge

Stern (noun)

  1. the back part of a boat or ship.

Examples

  • The captain stood at the stern, watching the horizon.
  • They tied the rope to the stern of the boat.

Synonyms of Stern

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Antonyms of Stern

  • describing a person's demeanor or rules
  • describing a person's approach or manner