Crossword Genius

It's severe at the rear (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stern

I believe this is a double definition.

'it's severe' is the first definition.
(I've seen this before)

'the rear' is the second definition.
(the stern is the rear of a boat)

'at' is the link.

(Other definitions for stern that I've seen before include "at the back of the galley!" , "Unrelenting at the back of the boat?" , "Rents out at rear of boat" , "Severe; grimly serious" , "Grave; rear" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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