Adjective
1. of a stern or strict bearing or demeanor; forbidding in aspect;
"an austere expression""a stern face"2. not to be placated or appeased or moved by entreaty;
"grim determination""grim necessity""Russia's final hour, it seemed, approached with inexorable certainty""relentless persecution""the stern demands of parenthood"3. severe and unremitting in making demands;
"an exacting instructor""a stern disciplinarian""strict standards"