consternation



From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:


Consternation \Con`ster*na"tion\, n. [L. consternatio, fr.
   consternare to overome, perplex, an accessory form of
   consternere to throw down, prostrate; con + sternere to
   spread out, throw down: cf. F. consternation. See Stratum.]
   Amazement or horror that confounds the faculties, and
   incapacitates for reflection; terror, combined with
   amazement; dismay.
   [1913 Webster]

         The chiefs around,
         In silence wrapped, in consternation drowned.
         Attend the stern reply.                  --Pope.

   Syn: Alarm; fright; amazement; astonishment; surprise; panic;
        perturbation. See Alarm.
        [1913 Webster]














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