Discountenance

/dɪsˈkaʊntənəns/ verb

Definition

To regard with disfavor or disapproval; to refuse to accept or acknowledge; to show disapproval of.

Etymology

From dis- + countenance (which means 'face' or 'support' from Old French contenance). Originally meant to change someone's expression or refuse to look favorably upon them.

Kelly Says

The word 'countenance' comes from the same root as 'face'—so 'discountenance' literally means to make someone lose face or show them you don't support them by changing your expression!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.