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

Example Sentences

McGrath announced another run for Senate earlier this month, to the consternation of several of her fellow Democrats.

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That effort has been heavily centered in the Los Angeles region, to the consternation of many Democratic leaders and immigration advocacy organizations.

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The timing was awful and it caused consternation internally.

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Losing a chance for a Grand Slam title is a key source of consternation for the doubles players.

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They still think that, even in light of all that’s gone wrong to this point, they possess the kind of otherworldly potential that caused so much consternation back before the season.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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