I. ˈstərn adjective
Etymology: Middle English sterne, from Old English styrne; akin to Old English starian to stare — more at stare
Date: before 12th century
1.
a. : 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
4. : sturdy , stout
a stern resolve
Synonyms: see severe
• stern·ly adverb
• stern·ness ˈstərn-nəs noun
II. noun
Etymology: Middle English, rudder, probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse stjōrn steering, rudder; akin to Old English stīeran to steer — more at steer
Date: 14th century
1. : the rear end of a boat
2. : a hinder or rear part : the last or latter part