Definition of "stern" []

• Hard, harsh, or severe in manner or character: a stern disciplinarian. See Synonyms at severe. (adjective)
• Grim, gloomy, or forbidding in appearance or outlook. (adjective)
• Firm or unyielding; uncompromising. (adjective)
• Inexorable; relentless: stern necessity. (adjective)
• Nautical The rear part of a ship or boat. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "“There are few things I would deny you, Daughter, without good reason,” Balm answered, her expression stern."
• "President Obama's promising what he calls a stern response if North Korea launches a missile, as it now threatens."
• "Before she could get any more information from him, Marco walked over to them, his expression stern."