144 Another Word for Sternness? – Sternness Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say sternness differently? Here are other words for sternness and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.


Meaning of sternness

The primary meaning of "sternness" refers to the quality of being severe, strict, or unyielding in manner, attitude, or appearance.

Etymology of sternness

The word "sternness" originates from the Old English word "stern", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "sterniz", also related to the Proto-Indo-European root "ster-", meaning "to stretch" or "to extend", possibly implying a sense of tautness or severity.
The word has been used in English since the 14th century to describe a person's demeanor, attitude, or appearance, and has evolved to encompass a range of connotations, from severity and strictness to solemnity and gloominess.

Synonyms

severity harshness austerity rigidity firmness strictness solemnity gravity somberness gloominess sullenness moroseness gruffness brusqueness curtness abruptness gruffness toughness hardness inflexibility unyieldingness stubbornness obstinacy intransigence stringency asceticism self-discipline self-control resoluteness determination decisiveness toughness hardness crispness sharpness acerbity acidity bitterness unpleasantness.

Definitions

  • The quality of being stern, having or showing a serious and unfrivolous attitude or demeanor.
  • Severe or strict in manner, attitude, or appearance, often to the point of being intimidating or unyielding.
  • Having a serious, solemn, or gloomy quality, often characterized by a lack of warmth or humor.

Usage Examples

  • The principal's sternness was intimidating to the students, who rarely dared to challenge her authority.
  • The judge's sternness in the courtroom commanded respect from the lawyers and the jury.
  • The sternness of the landscape, with its rugged mountains and barren plains, was a testament to the region's harsh climate.

Antonyms

leniency gentleness softness mildness kindness benevolence affability amiability warmth friendliness approachability congeniality cordiality geniality hospitality courtesy politeness tact diplomacy flexibility pliability yieldingness compliance acquiescence docility meekness submissiveness.

Related Adjectives

severe strict firm rigid solemn grave somber sullen morose gruff brusque curt abrupt harsh austere ascetic self-disciplined resolute determined decisive tough hard inflexible unyielding stubborn obstinate intransigent.

Related Nouns

discipline severity austerity rigidity firmness strictness solemnity gravity somberness gloominess sullenness moroseness gruffness brusqueness curtness abruptness gruffness toughness hardness inflexibility self-control self-discipline resoluteness determination decisiveness.

Related Verbs

discipline severity chasten scold rebuke reprimand admonish caution warn intimidate daunt cow frighten terrorize strict rigid firm solemn grave somber sullen morose gruff brusque curt abrupt.
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