noun

consternation

consternation, dismay, anxiety

The announcement was met with consternation.

The announcement was met with consternation.

To her consternation, the door was locked.

To her consternation, the door was locked.

((uncountable)) a feeling of anxiety or dismay The news was met with consternation.

Synonyms: dismay, alarm, shock; Antonyms: composure, calm

From Latin 'consternare' (to throw into confusion), from con- (together) + sternere (to spread out, throw down).

Picture a 'constellation' of stars suddenly falling from the sky, causing great shock and dismay.

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