How to Pronounce "stern"
word
/ˈstɝn/
sturn
/stˈɜːn/
sturn
Definition
If someone is stern, they are very serious and strict, especially when they want people to follow rules or behave properly. It can describe a person, a look, a voice, or a warning.
IPA Transcription
American English
/ˈstɝn/
British English
/stˈɜːn/
Simplified Pronunciation
US
sturn
UK
sturn
Listen in Context
The teacher gave us a stern look.
My dad sounded stern when I came home late.
She has a stern face, but she is kind.
The coach got stern after we stopped taking practice seriously.