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English Lexicon

Sternness

/ˈstɜːn.nəs/
nounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #14500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    The quality of being strict, severe, or unyielding in manner, character, or appearance.

    "There was a noticeable sternness in his face as he delivered the reprimand."
  2. 2

    A serious and forbidding expression or grimness of countenance.

    "She maintained her sternness despite the comical situation unfolding before her."
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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the Old English 'stierne' meaning strict, severe, or austere, combined with the Germanic nominal suffix '-ness'. Historically rooted in Proto-Germanic terms denoting rigidity or firmness, the word evolved to describe both physical austerity and strict, unyielding moral or behavioral discipline.

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