Of or with regard to countenance, speech, demeanour: Stern, harsh, rough, surly. Obsolete.

of looks or aspect.

Of looks, bearing, gait: Indicating a stern disposition or mood; expressing grave displeasure; resolute, austere, gloomy.

Of a thing: stern, fierce. Obsolete.

Of a person's looks, demeanour, etc.: Betokening a severe mood or disposition.