crossword clue stern – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue 'stern' in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. This page provides a comprehensive list of possible answers, ranging from common synonyms for 'strict' or 'severe' to nautical terms, helping you quickly complete your grid.
Solutions for "crossword clue stern" by Letter Count
3 Letters
AFT: At, near, or toward the stern of a ship or aircraft; a common nautical term often used in crosswords for 'stern'.
4 Letters
GRIM: Forbidding or uninviting in appearance; stern or unyielding. Refers to a severe or serious demeanor.
BACK: The rear part of something. Can colloquially refer to the stern or rear of a vehicle or object.
5 Letters
HARSH: Unpleasantly rough or jarring; severe or strict in manner. A common synonym for 'stern' in terms of demeanor.
RIGID: Unable to bend or be forced out of shape; stiff; strictly applied or adhered to, implying sternness in character or rules.
6 Letters
SEVERE: Very great; intense; strict or harsh in attitude or appearance. Another direct synonym for a 'stern' person or look.
STRICT: Enforcing or expecting rigid adherence to rules or standards; precise. Closely related to the meaning of a stern demeanor.
7 Letters
AUSTERE: Severe or strict in manner, attitude, or appearance; without luxury or ornamentation. A more formal synonym for stern.
More About "crossword clue stern"
The crossword clue "stern" is a fantastic example of how crossword puzzles leverage the richness of the English language. 'Stern' is a word with at least two distinct and commonly understood meanings: describing a person's demeanor (serious, strict, unyielding) and referring to the rear part of a ship or boat.
This dual meaning makes it a versatile and sometimes tricky clue for setters. Depending on the context provided by other words in the clue, the answer could be a synonym for 'strict' or 'severe' (like HARSH, AUSTERE, or RIGID), or a nautical term for the back of a vessel (like AFT or BACK). Savvy solvers learn to identify these potential ambiguities.
Understanding these different facets of "stern" is crucial for successful crossword solving. Always consider if the clue is hinting at a personality trait or a maritime feature. This careful consideration of context is often the key to unlocking the correct answer, no matter the word length.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Context: For words with multiple meanings like 'stern,' pay close attention to other words in the clue. Do they suggest a human characteristic or a physical object/location?
- Consider Word Lengths: If you have some letters filled in, use the length of the required answer to narrow down possibilities. For 'stern,' both short nautical terms and longer descriptive synonyms are possible.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: Even if the clue uses a trick, its core meaning often points to a synonym. If 'stern' means strict, what other words mean strict? If it means the rear, what other words mean rear?
- Check Cross-References: If the clue is complex, look at the letters already filled in from intersecting words. These letters are your most reliable guide to confirming or refuting a potential answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'stern' have multiple meanings in crosswords?
Many English words are polysemous (have multiple meanings), and crossword setters often exploit this for clever clues. 'Stern' is a classic example, referring to both a demeanor (strict, severe) and a part of a ship (the rear). This adds complexity and often requires solvers to consider the full context of the clue.
How can I tell if 'stern' refers to a personality or a ship part in a crossword?
Context is key! Look at the other words in the clue. If it mentions 'look,' 'expression,' 'teacher,' or 'parent,' it likely refers to a severe demeanor. If it mentions 'boat,' 'ship,' 'aft,' 'bow,' or a nautical context, it probably refers to the rear of a vessel. The number of letters in the answer can also sometimes provide a hint.
Are there other common words with dual meanings frequently used in crosswords?
Yes, many! Crossword setters love to use words with multiple meanings to challenge solvers. Common examples include 'bank' (river bank, financial institution), 'date' (fruit, time), 'fair' (just, carnival), 'mine' (possession, excavation), and 'lead' (metal, to guide). Always be aware of possible double meanings when solving.