stern
adjective
firm, strict, or uncompromising.
sternest
-
superlativeof stern.superlative
The form of an adjective or adverb indicating the greatest 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.
It was probably the sternest test the Americans have faced in the tournament.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 2, 2026
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
A guidance counselor came by and gave Kitty her sternest voice and shook several of her fingers at her.
From "145th Street: Short Stories" by Walter Dean Myers
