consternation
Americannoun
noun
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.
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 • Jan. 30, 2026
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 • Jan. 14, 2026
What causes White much angst is that interest rates need only rise a small amount relative to nominal growth in an economy to start posing real consternation for central bankers and finance ministries.
From MarketWatch • Jan. 7, 2026
That is far greater than levels that have caused consternation regarding U.S. and European spending, and a reason Beijing may not make a major move to revive domestic demand.
From Barron's • Dec. 17, 2025
“Well, and but why do they seize my neighbor, who is as innocent as I who have never heard of this new war?” asked Wang Lung in great consternation.
From "The Good Earth" by Pearl S. Buck
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
