English Explanatory Dictionary

countenance

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. Appearance, especially the features and expression of the face.
  2. Favour; support; encouragement.
  3. Superficial appearance; show; pretense.
  4. Calm facial expression, composure, self-control.
verb
  1. To tolerate, support, sanction, patronise or approve of something.

Pronunciation

/ˈkaʊn.tə.nəns/ /ˈkaʊnt.nəns/ en-us-countenance.ogg [kæũ̯n.tɪ̆.nəns] en-au-countenance.ogg

Word forms

countenance countenances countenaunce countenancing countenanced

Etymology

From Middle English contenaunce, countenaunce, from Anglo-Norman countenance and Old French contenance, from the present participle of contenir, or from Late Latin continentia, and therefore a doublet of continence.

Synonyms

boat complexion countenance chevy chase dial ecaf eek George Best face favor kisser look map mug mush pan physiognomy phiz phizog punim visage approve sanction support tolerate

Related words

demeanor body language figure mask beautiful handsome homely plain pretty ugly two-faced

Derived words

countenancer divine countenance in countenance keep one's countenance out of countenance uncountenanceable uncountenanced
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