consternation

[kon-ster-ney-shuhn]

noun

1. a sudden, alarming amazement or dread that results in utter confusion; dismay.

   Synonyms: horror, fright, panic, fear, terror, alarm, bewilderment
   Antonyms: equanimity, composure

consternation

/ ˌkɒnstəˈneɪʃən /

noun

1. a feeling of anxiety, dismay, dread, or confusion

Word History and Origins

Origin of consternation¹

First recorded in 1605–15, consternation is from the Latin word consternātiōn- (stem of consternātiō ). See consternate, -ion

Example Sentences

That strategy has been the source of some investor consternation, but management says it’s paying off.

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The Square unit, which offers payment technology to merchants, has been a source of consternation lately, partly as volume growth has outpaced gross-profit growth, raising questions about the profitability of incremental business.

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But the referee was quickly encouraged by the VAR officials to check the incident on the small touchline screen and reversed his own decision to the consternation of the crowd.

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Under the U.S. system, Chinese companies that are cleared to receive purchases under the VEU sometimes have this clearance taken away, which has caused consternation in Beijing.

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The Dodgers’ largess inspired widespread debate and consternation all season long, raising concern that the wealth gap in a sport without a salary cap had become a chasm.

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Related Words

• alarm 
• amazement 
• anxiety 
• awe 
• bewilderment 
• confusion 
• dread 
• fright 
• horror 
• panic 
• perplexity 
• terror 
• trepidation