stern
adjective
firm, strict, or uncompromising.
sterner
-
comparativeof stern.comparative
The form of an adjective or adverb indicating a greater degree of a quality.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Wach has lost seven of his past 10 fights and is a significant underdog on paper, but Fury insisted the veteran presents a sterner test than Joshua's opponent, Albanian Prenga.
From BBC ● Jul. 22, 2026
Fireworks can frighten animals and send them scattering, but Jackie and Shadow’s eaglets apparently are made of sterner stuff.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 6, 2026
Much sterner tests lie ahead for Rosenior, starting with a visit from Premier League leaders Arsenal in the League Cup semi-final first leg on Wednesday.
From Barron's ● Jan. 10, 2026
But it remains to be seen whether this president and the country he leads are ready for the sterner tests to come.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 13, 2025
The woman, wearing a plain black dress, looks like a sterner version of Miss Larsen.
From "Orphan Train" by Christina Baker Kline
