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.

Northampton were given a stern examination of their Champions Cup credentials by impressive Castres as they came out on top of an engrossing contest to book their place in the quarter-finals.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

There was the neatly coiffed hair, the nicely fitting suit, the smartly positioned tie, even the painfully stern expression from a guy who left no doubt who was running the show.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 22, 2026

While the admission likely resulted in some stern emails hitting a manager’s inbox, it’s ultimately refreshing that a star of Damon’s caliber and influence came out and actually said it.

From Salon • Jan. 25, 2026

William issues his own stern warnings: Sam must never, ever enter the basement writing “sanctuary” in his remote Maine mansion.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 23, 2026

Hazel reached the stern and couldn’t believe what she saw.

From "The House of Hades" by Rick Riordan