1. plural of sternness; instances or qualities of being stern, strict, or severe
Usage: formal

Examples

• The different sternnesses of the judges made some defendants more nervous than others.
• His various sternnesses toward his children reflected his military background.
• The teacher’s sternnesses were balanced by moments of genuine warmth.
• She noted the sternnesses in his expression as he reviewed the poor performance.
• The coach’s sternnesses during practice prepared the team for competition.
• Multiple sternnesses were evident in the principal’s handling of discipline issues.