adj.: gloomy-looking, strict, stringent, tart, tight, tough, unbidden, uncharitable, unmitigated, unsparing, as stiff as a ramrod [poker], Lycurgan, stiff, joyless, very harsh, unrelenting, exhausting, gruelling, US grueling, dour, Draconian, severe and strict, unyielding, severe or merciless, poignant, drastic, grim, hard, acrimonious, astringent, cutting, dear