consternation — a feeling of anxiety or dismay, typically at something unexpected
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a feeling of anxiety or dismay, typically at something unexpected
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌkɑːnsərˈneɪʃən/
Example Sentences
- Much to the teacher's consternation, the entire class showed up in pajamas for picture day.
- The announcement of the company's bankruptcy caused great consternation among employees.
- To his consternation, the GPS led him to a cow pasture instead of the wedding venue.
consternation
NOUN[/ˌkɑːnsərˈneɪʃən/]
a feeling of anxiety or dismay, typically at something unexpected
Opening the oven expecting a beautiful wedding cake, the baker stared at the black, burnt ashes in absolute consternation.
CON(completely) + STERN(strict) — seeing the principal's completely STERN and angry face, the noisy students froze in sudden consternation.
Finally arriving at his dream vacation destination, the traveler opened his empty wallet in complete consternation.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin consternatio, literally meaning 'a strewing down' or 'confusion.' The root relates to the idea of stars being scattered or thrown down from the sky, which ancient people believed would cause great alarm and dismay.
Breakdown
con- (intensive prefix, completely) + stern- (to strew/scatter) + -ation (noun suffix indicating state or action)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Much to the teacher's consternation, the entire class showed up in pajamas for picture day.”
“The announcement of the company's bankruptcy caused great consternation among employees.”
“To his consternation, the GPS led him to a cow pasture instead of the wedding venue.”
“The sudden market crash filled investors with consternation.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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