How to pronounce countenance
Say it like KOWN-tuh-nuns. Countenance has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KOWN).
- KOWN
- tuh
- nuns
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Countenance pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KOWNSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ow" in now.
- tuhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- nunsKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of countenance
American and British speakers say countenance in essentially the same way: /ˈkaʊntənəns/ in the US and /ˈkaʊntənəns/ in the UK.
British respelling: KOWN-tuh-nuns.
What does countenance mean?
- Appearance, especially the features and expression of the face.
- Favour; support; encouragement.
- Calm facial expression, composure, self-control.
- To tolerate, support, sanction, patronise or approve of something.“The cruel punishment was countenanced by the government, although it was not officially legal.”
Where does countenance come from?
From Middle English contenaunce, countenaunce, from Anglo-Norman countenance and Old French contenance, from the present participle of contenir, or from Late Latin continentia, and therefore a doublet of continence.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying countenance
How do you pronounce countenance?
Say KOWN-tuh-nuns. The American pronunciation is /ˈkaʊntənəns/. In British English it is /ˈkaʊntənəns/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in countenance?
Countenance has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KOWN). Broken into parts: KOWN · tuh · nuns.
Do Americans and Brits say countenance the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈkaʊntənəns/ and the British form is /ˈkaʊntənəns/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.