coun•te•nance
Pronunciation: (koun'tn-uns), [key]
— n., v., -nanced, -nanc•ing.
—n.
- appearance, esp. the look or expression of the face: a sad countenance.
- the face; visage.
- calm facial expression; composure.
- approval or favor; encouragement; moral support.
- bearing; behavior.
- visibly disconcerted; abashed: He was somewhat out of countenance at the prospect of an apology.
—v.t.
- to permit or tolerate: You should not have countenanced his rudeness.
- to approve, support, or encourage.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.