countenance 1 of 2

noun

ˈkau̇n-tᵊn-ən(t)s How to pronounce countenance (audio)
Definition of countenancenext
1
as in expression
facial appearance regarded as an indication of mood or feeling a pleasant countenance that puts visitors at ease

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
as in face
the front part of the head a fairly pretty countenance

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3
as in composure
evenness of emotions or temper the EMT's purposeful countenance was in stark contrast to everyone else's hysteria

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

countenance

2 of 2

verb

1
as in to accept
to have a favorable opinion of I don't countenance such behavior in children of any age

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to tolerate
to put up with (something painful or difficult) countenanced the delays and inconveniences of traveling by air with good grace

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of countenance
Noun
Two high-profile shows at the same time—and yet, her countenance displays no sign of exhaustion. — Dennis Braatz, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 May 2026 This condition cannot be met by utilitarianism, because that ethical theory would countenance forms of government in which the greater happiness of a majority is achieved by neglecting the rights and interests of a minority. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 20 Mar. 2026
Verb
So, like Croatia, who turned to 40-year-old Luka Modric in their opening game against England, and Portugal, who could not countenance being without Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, in their opener, Bosnia reached for their own vintage performer. — Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 18 June 2026 These may be luxuries that only an almost-unlimited budget would countenance. — Nancy A. Youssef, The Atlantic, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for countenance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for countenance
  1. expression
  2. face
  3. composure
  4. accept
  5. tolerate
  6. look
  7. visage
  8. endure
Noun
  • The researchers scanned the brains of eight dogs — six border collies, a labrador and a golden retriever — while showing them images of strangers with either a happy or a neutral expression.
    — Lianne Kolirin, CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2026
  • When Robert offers to help, Thom’s expression is curiously muted.
    — Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of expression
Noun
  • The team ended the NBA’s longest season in October 2020 with the franchise’s 17th title, the crowning achievement of Jeanie’s time as the face of Lakers ownership.
    — Law Murray, New York Times, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Despite a recent controversy regarding his comments about Dodgers fans, Crow-Armstrong's dynamic play and the potential for a new MVP face could sway voters over Ohtani's two-way dominance.
    — Bernie Pleskoff, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of face
Noun
  • Ampadu’s tenacity in the tackle, composure on the ball and his long throw — an emerging weapon — all contributed to the team’s strong showings.
    — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Willis showed good composure, arm strength, accuracy and decision-making, going 4-for-5 passing for 43 yards while leading the Dolphins on a 14-play, 93-yard touchdown drive.
    — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of composure
Verb
  • Nguyen Thi Quynh Tam, 24, said she was raped on July 5 and pressured by the man's family to accept money and not go to police.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 20 Aug. 2026
  • After rigorous vetting, companies accepted into the Program will be authorized to conduct two types of cyber operations under the contract and direction of the Departments of Justice or Homeland Security.
    — Jill Goldenziel, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of accept
Verb
  • Although the supplements are generally well tolerated, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, are allergic to ferns, or are taking other medications—particularly immune-modulating ones—may not be good candidates, Nazarian said.
    — Kristen Fischer, HEALTH, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Those with sensitive skin should proceed with caution when using the two ingredients together, as the combination may be too much for their skin to tolerate.
    — Kelsey Stewart, Allure, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of tolerate
Noun
  • In keeping with its museum neighbour, the hotel is filled with fascinating trinkets and artsy details that reward a closer look.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Mrtka has the look of an NHL defenseman, as there aren’t many 6-6 defenders who can skate and handle the puck well.
    — Corey Pronman, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of look
Noun
  • Armed with various putties, fillers, waxes, and bundles of human hair, their goal was to produce a visage worthy of an open casket.
    — John Semley, Harpers Magazine, 28 July 2026
  • The new exterior takes the Sterrato’s already sculpted visage and adds some serious brawn, which can best be seen in the fenders and the roof, which now sports a scoop.
    — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 23 July 2026
Definition of visage
Verb
  • Swaths of Europe are enduring their fifth heatwave of the year this week, with parts of Britain, France, Spain and Italy under extreme heat warnings.
    — Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Yet for Asian countries that endured Japanese imperial rule and expansion, Yasukuni remains a symbol of Japan’s militarism.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of endure

Browse Nearby Words

counted (up to)
countenance
countenanced
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Cite this Entry

“Countenance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/countenance. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of countenance for Spanish Speakers

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