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stern1

stern1

 
 
pronunciation:
stuhrn
part of speech: adjective
inflections: sterner, sternest
definition 1: firm and determined; not flexible.
Our teacher is stern about homework that isn't done.
synonyms:
severe, strict
antonyms:
lenient, soft
similar words:
determined, exacting, grim, hard, inflexible, rigid, stiff
definition 2: grim or strict.
My dad had a stern expression on his face when I got home late.
synonyms:
austere, grim
antonyms:
friendly, genial, gentle
similar words:
cold, gloomy, grave, hard, harsh, sullen, unkind
derivations: sternly (adj.), sternness (n.)