1. most strict, severe, or demanding in manner or attitude
Usage: superlative form of ‘stern’
2. most serious and forbidding in appearance or manner
Usage: superlative form of ‘stern’

Examples

• The principal gave his sternest warning to the misbehaving students.
• Even her sternest critics admitted she had done excellent work.
• He wore his sternest expression during the serious conversation.
• The judge delivered the sternest sentence allowed by law.
• She faced her sternest test when the company nearly went bankrupt.
• His sternest look couldn’t hide his affection for his grandchildren.
• The coach’s sternest discipline came after the team’s poor performance.