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