sternest
- superlative of stern.
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.
The blockage in the Persian Gulf poses the sternest test the reserves have ever faced.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 9, 2026
The challenge comes just as investors’ appetite for risk, and sentiment regarding tech stocks, face their sternest tests since the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022.
From Barron's • Feb. 5, 2026
In death penalty cases, the legal system is put to its sternest test.
From Salon • Jun. 29, 2025
After the game, Ham’s voice was loudest and sternest when chiding people who, in his opinion, are missing the big picture.
From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 6, 2024
Elizabeth looks at him over her knitting, sizing him up with narrowed eyes that remind him of his sternest teachers, though he stands much taller than she does.
From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern
