Of a person, an agent: Severe, stern, strict, exacting in actions or dealings. Obsolete.

Acting or ruling with an iron hand (iron hand, n. 1); firm, inflexible; severe, rigorous.

Of persons: Holding a rigorous and austere standard of living; stern to oneself in matters of conscience and morality.

Characteristic of a Presbyterian; strait-laced; frugal; strict.

Originally and chiefly Nautical. Of a ship's officer: strictly or severely enforcing discipline; disciplinarian. Frequently in taut hand.