countenance
countenance Lexical Profile
countenance Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A person's face or facial expression, especially as an indication of mood, character, or emotion.
"The judge maintained a stern countenance throughout the lengthy courtroom proceedings."
Moral support, approval, or sanction given to a person, action, or plan.
"The committee refused to lend its countenance to the controversial proposal."
Calmness of expression, self-possession, or mental composure.
"Startled by the unexpected question, the speaker briefly lost his countenance before recovering his poise."
• verb
To admit as acceptable or possible; to tolerate, approve, or sanction.
"The university administration will not countenance any form of academic dishonesty."
Word Nuance & Usage
As a verb, 'countenance' is used predominantly in negative or interrogative constructions (e.g., 'I will not countenance such behavior') to express a refusal to tolerate or approve of something.
• Rhymes for countenance
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 13th century from Old French 'contenance' ('demeanor, bearing, facial expression'), from Medieval Latin 'continentia' ('how one holds oneself'), derived from the Latin verb 'continere' ('to hold together, restrain').