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consternation

American  
[kon-ster-ney-shuhn] / ˌkɒn stərˈneɪ ʃən /

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 British  
/ ˌkɒnstəˈneɪʃən /

noun

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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of consternation

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Dodgers’ deal with Kyle Tucker is another major development that caused immediate consternation throughout baseball.

From Los Angeles Times

Another source of consternation is AMD’s ramp of its operating expenses, which “is starting to become a bit tiresome” considering the company’s “lackluster” execution, Rasgon said.

From MarketWatch

While there has always been consternation over immigration enforcement, Sandweg said “the widespread tactics and the targeting of people with no criminal record, just really galvanized people in a way they’ve never been galvanized before.”

From Los Angeles Times

It’s a major deal that caused immediate consternation throughout baseball.

From Los Angeles Times

Asked why this information had not been made public, the chief constable said to the consternation of MPs that it was because "he wasn't asked about it" before.

From BBC