Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Sternness
Stern′ness
,Noun.
The quality or state of being stern.
Webster 1828 Edition
Sternness
STERNNESS
,Noun.
1.
Severity of look; a look of austerity, rigor or severe authority; as the sternness of ones presence.2.
Severity or harshness of manner; rigor. I have sternness in my soul enough to hear of soldiers work.