consternation
n. uncountable C1 Advanced US //ˌkɑnstɝˈneɪʃən// UK //kɒnstənˈeɪʃən// con·ster·na·tion
n. a feeling of worry, shock, or confusion. You feel this when something unexpected and unpleasant happens.
n. a state of anxiety, dismay, or confusion, typically resulting from something unexpected. Often used to describe a collective reaction to a sudden change or event.
The sudden news caused great consternation among the staff.
To the consternation of the local residents, the council decided to build a highway through the park.
The sudden collapse of the negotiations was met with consternation by international observers, who had expected a peaceful resolution to the long-standing conflict.
Usage
Often follows the preposition 'to' (e.g., 'to the consternation of') or is paired with verbs like 'cause' or 'express'.