Noah Webster
Stark
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.