stark

UK: stɑːk | US: stɑːrk

Definition

  1. adj. 1. severe or bare in appearance or outline

  2. adj. 2. complete or utter (e.g., "stark contrast")

  3. adj. 3. harsh, uncompromising (e.g., "stark reality")

Structure
stark <rigid, severe>
Etymology

The word "stark" traces back to Old English stearc, meaning "stiff, rigid, or severe." It evolved from Proto-Germanic starkaz, conveying strength or harshness. Over time, it retained its core sense of severity but expanded to describe visual bareness (e.g., "stark landscape") and absolute conditions (e.g., "stark difference"). The Germanic root reflects a logic of unyielding rigidity, which persists in modern usage.

Examples

  1. The desert was a stark expanse of sand under the blazing sun.

  2. There’s a stark contrast between his public image and private behavior.

  3. She delivered the news in stark terms, leaving no room for hope.

  4. The room’s stark white walls gave it a clinical feel.

  5. His stark refusal to compromise surprised everyone.