STARK, adjective [G., stark stiff, strong; formed on the root of the G., stiff, rigid. See Starch and Steer.] 1. Stiff; strong; rugged. Many a nobleman lies stark and stiff, under the hoofs of vaunting enemies. The north is not so stark and cold. 2. Deep; full; profound; absolute. He pronounces the citation stark nonsense. STARK, adverb Wholly; entirely; absolutely; as stark mad; stark blind; stark naked. These are the principal applications of this word now in use. The word is in popular use, but not an elegant word in any of its applications.
Source: Webster's 1828 American Dictionary ↗ · public-domain · returned verbatim, no AI