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
Explanation
Consternation is a noun that can stop you in your tracks because it means "a sudden, alarming amazement or dread that results in utter confusion; dismay." If you have a sense of consternation you have become afraid, disoriented, or completely befuddled. It comes from the Latin roots con- and -sternare, which means "spread out." Picture all of your thoughts strewn about, nothing makes sense and you might experience a state of consternation. Like the nightmare about the class you forgot to go to in high school and now you have to take the final exam!
Vocabulary lists containing consternation
"Harrison Bergeron"
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The Call of the Wild
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Frankenstein
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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.
These plans have created great consternation in your family and, to a certain extent, excitement.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 6, 2026
At a community meeting I attended this week, the possible loss of a Whole Foods tenant caused considerable consternation.
From Salon ● Sep. 18, 2026
The twin disclosures caused consternation among lawmakers, with some citing them to argue for new regulation or testing regimes.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 1, 2026
Now, when he meets younger fans and budding filmmakers, their enthusiasm excites him, though it seems to cause him some consternation.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 30, 2026
“Not yet,” she said, and when she saw his consternation she explained that farm kids drove early—they had to.
From "Song of Solomon" by Toni Morrison
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.
