coun·te·nance (koun'tə-nəns)
n.

1. Appearance, especially the expression of the face: The question left him with a puzzled countenance.
2. The face or facial features.
3. 1. A look or expression indicative of encouragement or of moral support.
   2. Support or approval.
4. Obsolete. Bearing; demeanor.

tr.v., -nanced, -nanc·ing, -nanc·es.
To give sanction or support to; tolerate or approve: The college administration will not countenance cheating.

[Middle English contenaunce, from Old French, from contenir, to behave. See contain.]

countenancer coun'te·nanc·er n.

---

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

---