Definition of stern
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a
: having a definite hardness or severity of nature or manner : austere
b
: expressive of severe displeasure : harsh
2
: forbidding or gloomy in appearance
3
: inexorable
stern necessity
stern
nounDefinition of stern (Entry 2 of 2)
1
: the rear end of a boat
2
: a hinder or rear part : the last or latter part
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for stern
The first known use of stern was before the 12th century
See more words from the same century