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
Synonyms & Similar Words
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
1
as in to accept
to have a favorable opinion of
I don't countenance such behavior in children of any age
Synonyms & Similar Words
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
Synonyms & Similar Words
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
Frank Barry, The Mercury News, 30 Jan. 2025
Supporters were taken aback by news of United’s willingness to countenance offers for Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, with Napoli and Chelsea both pursuing the latter.
—Mark Critchley, The Athletic, 22 Jan. 2025
Isaac Chotiner, The New Yorker, 19 Feb. 2025
Freed from the need to justify his actions in traditional terms, the president has enacted policies no predecessor would have countenanced while moving to purge any internal dissenters.
—Yair Rosenberg, The Atlantic, 14 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for countenance
Noun
Without listening to these dissenting voices, the Democratic Party seems unable to recognize — or countenance — that many of them favor middle-ground positions.
—Frank Barry, The Mercury News, 30 Jan. 2025
Supporters were taken aback by news of United’s willingness to countenance offers for Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, with Napoli and Chelsea both pursuing the latter.
—Mark Critchley, The Athletic, 22 Jan. 2025
Verb
And there’s a refusal on the part of these groups to countenance that.
—Isaac Chotiner, The New Yorker, 19 Feb. 2025
Freed from the need to justify his actions in traditional terms, the president has enacted policies no predecessor would have countenanced while moving to purge any internal dissenters.
—Yair Rosenberg, The Atlantic, 14 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for countenance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for countenance
Noun
-
Music, literature and the visual arts are not optional luxuries but essential expressions of our humanity.—
William P. Yeakel,
Baltimore Sun,
28 Apr. 2025
-
But a huge expression of dissent from church leaders in Africa, the place that many see as the faith’s future, forced him to backtrack.—
Jason Horowitz,
New York Times,
27 Apr. 2025
Noun
-
But markets are betting on more stimulus being rolled out soon in the face of the escalating China-U.S. trade war.—
Hannah Lang and Rae Wee,
USA Today,
22 Apr. 2025
-
His story is particularly notable for his defense of the Maratha kingdom and his legendary courage in the face of adversity.—
Naman Ramachandran,
Variety,
21 Apr. 2025
Noun
-
Smith fills a vital role as a defensive-minded midfielder who is adept at winning balls in the air and never losing her composure.—
Matt Le Cren,
Chicago Tribune,
14 Apr. 2025
-
But iron play, putting, mental fortitude, desire, composure, moxie?—
Jordan Kaye,
Charlotte Observer,
11 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
Ja-young not only realizes what’s going on but accepts her grandson’s decision, becoming a reluctant ally in the charade.—
Justin Chang,
New Yorker,
19 Apr. 2025
-
Cash only: The Desert Bar doesn't accept credit or debit cards.—
Tiffany Acosta,
USA Today,
18 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
Some are bred to tolerate warmer or colder temperatures.—
Kim Toscano,
Southern Living,
25 Apr. 2025
-
Treat divergence not as something to tolerate but as a strategic asset.—
Vibhas Ratanjee,
Forbes.com,
25 Apr. 2025
Noun
-
Whatever your reasons for wanting to downsize, this tiny home is worth a look.—
Miles Walls,
Better Homes & Gardens,
23 Apr. 2025
-
Additionally, the sheer, buildable coverage will reduce the look of imperfections.—
Nora Colomer,
FOXNews.com,
23 Apr. 2025
Noun
-
In that mighty visage, Stephens and Hernandez tease out a theme of grand scope and urgency.—
Richard Brody,
New Yorker,
18 Apr. 2025
-
Those who prefer a true skin-like visage will love it, while those keen on a glowy finish can build to that level.—
Kiana Murden,
Vogue,
8 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
Interest might ebb and flow depending on the person who fills the role, but the kingly complexion of the papacy itself continues to hold enduring intrigue.—
Marc Ramirez,
USA Today,
26 Apr. 2025
-
Never underestimate a woman’s ability to endure pain.—
Anna Cafolla,
Vogue,
25 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Countenance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/countenance. Accessed 2 May. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share