stern
Translation
stern, strict, severe
Examples
The teacher gave us a stern warning.
The teacher gave us a stern warning.
His face was stern and unsmiling.
His face was stern and unsmiling.
The flag flew from the stern of the boat.
The flag flew from the stern of the boat.
Grammar Patterns
((a)) stern ((noun)) used before a noun to describe it He has a stern face.
((sb.)) is stern used after a verb like 'be' or 'seem' The judge seemed very stern.
Similar Words
Synonyms: strict, severe, harsh; Antonyms: gentle, lenient
Etymology
From Old English 'styrne' meaning 'severe, strict'. Related to German 'starr' (rigid).
Memory Tips
Picture a 'stern' (strict) captain standing at the 'stern' (back) of his ship. This connects the two meanings.