sternness

noun

Definition of sternnessnext
as in severity
the quality or state of being demanding or unyielding (as in discipline or criticism) the company's new president has a reputation for granitelike sternness and monkish austerity

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sternness Saura had a large sense of the humor, which struck those who got to know him, belying the sternness of his public visage with his playful banter and frequent chuckle. — John Hopewell, Variety, 6 Mar. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sternness
severity
Noun
  • The severity of reactions can vary widely, ranging from mild symptoms to potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis.
    — Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 14 Oct. 2026
  • Kidney Disease Can Disrupt the Balance Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can disrupt the balance of magnesium in the blood, depending on the severity.
    — MD Published, Verywell Health, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of severity

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sternmost
sternness
sterns
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Cite this Entry

“Sternness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sternness. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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