OUT COUNTENANCE Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "out countenance" refers to a state of being perplexed, bewildered, or surprised to the point where one's usual composure or facial expression is disrupted or visibly altered. When someone is out of countenance, their usual calm and composed demeanor is shattered, and they may display signs of confusion, astonishment, disapproval, or uneasiness.
The term originates from the word "countenance," which refers to an individual's facial expression or overall demeanor that reflects their emotional state. Thus, being "out countenance" implies a deviation from one's typical facial expression or composure due to a sudden change of emotions or an unexpected situation.
This phrase can be used to describe someone who is caught off guard by a shocking revelation, stunned by a surprising event, or taken aback by an unexpected turn of events. It suggests that the person's emotions are overpowering their ability to maintain their usual calm and composed exterior, resulting in a visible change in their facial expression or demeanor.
Overall, "out countenance" captures the idea of being emotionally disarmed or shaken to the point where one's outward appearance reveals their inner turmoil or astonishment. It emphasizes the sudden disruption of one's usual composure, leading to a noticeable change in their facial expression or overall demeanor.
Common Misspellings for OUT COUNTENANCE
- iut countenance
- kut countenance
- lut countenance
- put countenance
- 0ut countenance
- 9ut countenance
- oyt countenance
- oht countenance
- ojt countenance
- oit countenance
- o8t countenance
- o7t countenance
- our countenance
- ouf countenance
- oug countenance
- ouy countenance
- ou6 countenance
- ou5 countenance
- out xountenance
Etymology of OUT COUNTENANCE
The phrase "out of countenance" is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone who is embarrassed, ashamed, or disconcerted. This phrase can be traced back to Middle English and has its etymology rooted in Old French.
The word "countenance" itself originated from the Old French term "cuntenance", meaning "face" or "appearance". It was further derived from the Latin word "comitare", which means "to accompany" or "to go with". In this context, it referred to the appearance or expression of someone's face that was considered as an outward reflection of their thoughts or feelings.
The usage of "out of countenance" developed in English during the 14th century, evolving from the literal meaning of having a changed or disturbed facial expression. Over time, it took on a figurative sense, indicating a state of being visibly upset, embarrassed, or uneasy.
