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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 next day, after considerable consternation and multiple false starts, I wrote John Irving an email conveying my story.

From Los Angeles Times

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

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

Why have Nancy's tactics board & green shoes caused consternation?

From BBC

Ugly crying over “The Notebook” or singing along with “Wicked” might feel great, but it can cause your fellow passengers unnecessary consternation and/or annoyance.

From Los Angeles Times