countenance Definition
- 1a person's face or facial expression
- 2support or approval
- 3admit as acceptable or possible
Using countenance: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "countenance" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
His countenance showed his disappointment.
Example
The countenance of the crowd was friendly.
Example
I cannot countenance your behavior any longer.
Example
The company will not countenance any form of discrimination.
countenance Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for countenance
Antonyms for countenance
Phrases with countenance
to keep a serious and composed facial expression, especially in a difficult or awkward situation
Example
Despite the embarrassing situation, he managed to keep a straight countenance.
to become visibly upset or embarrassed
Example
She lost countenance when she realized she had made a mistake in her presentation.
to support or encourage something
Example
The government's actions gave countenance to the idea that the economy was improving.
Origins of countenance
from Old French 'cuntenance', from Latin 'continentia', meaning 'restraint'
Summary: countenance in Brief
The term 'countenance' [ˈkaʊntənəns] refers to a person's face or expression, as well as support or approval. It can also mean to admit as acceptable or possible, as in 'I cannot countenance your behavior any longer.' Phrases include 'keep a straight countenance,' meaning to remain serious in difficult situations, and 'give countenance to,' meaning to support or encourage.
