Search Dictionary
Definition of sternly

sternly

/ˈstɜːrnli/
stern · ly
Adjective:stern
JUMP TO:

sternly Lexical Profile

sternly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a serious, strict, or severe manner, especially when asserting authority or expressing disapproval.

Example

"The principal spoke sternly to the students about the importance of following school safety rules."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for sternly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for sternly

• Rhymes for sternly

• Nearby Words

sterling
stern
sternbergia
sternly
sternness
sternum
steroid

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'styrnlice', derived from 'styrne' (severe, strict, hard) combined with the adverbial suffix '-lice' (-ly).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sternly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sternly
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.