# countenance

/ˈkaʊntənəns/ (US) · /kˈaʊntənəns/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/countenance
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the face or the expression on someone's face. It is an old-fashioned word that you might see in books or formal speeches.

For teachers: the face or the facial expression of a person. Often used in literary or formal contexts to describe a person's appearance or emotional state.

## Examples

- He had a stern countenance that made everyone feel nervous.
- The judge's countenance remained neutral throughout the entire trial, showing no sign of favor or anger.
- The portrait captures the subject's countenance with such precision that even the subtle tension in his jawline is visible to the viewer.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.