countenance: Meaning and Definition of

coun•te•nance

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