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Definition of consternation

consternation

/ˌkɑːn.stɚˈneɪ.ʃən/
con · ster · na · tion
Plural:consternations
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consternation Lexical Profile

consternation Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A sudden, overwhelming feeling of anxiety, dismay, or confusion, typically caused by something unexpected.

Example

"To the consternation of the local residents, the historic bridge was closed indefinitely for structural repairs."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for consternation
Antonyms
View all antonyms for consternation

• Rhymes for consternation

• Nearby Words

constantinople
constantly
constellation
consternation
constipate
constipated
constipation

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from French consternation or directly from Latin consternatio, from the verb consternare ('to throw into confusion or terror'), derived from con- (expressing intensive force) and sternere ('to throw down or prostrate').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Consternation. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/consternation
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