Crossword Genius

Rear to be strict (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stern

This clue is a double definition.

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

'be strict' is the second definition.
(synonyms)

'to' is the link.

(Other definitions for stern that I've seen before include "Harsh at the back of the ship" , "having a forbidding appearance" , "Rents out at rear of boat" , "Hard - back" , "Rear of a vessel" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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