verb
countenance
To accept or allow something.
Our coach refuses to countenance cheating, even during practice.
Etymology
Old French contenance named bearing or demeanor. Showing a favorable countenance suggested approval or support, from which the verb developed the sense of accepting or allowing something.
More examples
- The board will not countenance cuts to safety training.
- By staying silent, she seems to countenance his rude behavior.
- Few parents would countenance such a risky trip.
Forms
countenance · countenances · countenanced · countenancing