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

Related Words

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