n.
Pronunciation: dis- ' m ā , diz-
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form: dis · mayed ; dis · may · ing
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French desmaier, from des- dis- + -maier, from Vulgar Latin *-magare, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German magan to be able ― more at MAY
Date: 13th century
1 : to cause to lose courage or resolution (as because of alarm or fear) <must not let ourselves be dismay ed by the task before us>
2 : UPSET , PERTURB <were dismay ed by the condition of the building>
– dis · may · ing · ly \ -i ŋ -l ē \ adverb
synonyms DISMAY , APPALL , HORRIFY , DAUNT mean to unnerve or deter by arousing fear, apprehension, or aversion. DISMAY implies that one is disconcerted and at a loss as to how to deal with something < dismayed at the size of the job>. APPALL implies that one is faced with that which perturbs, confounds, or shocks <I am appalled by your behavior>. HORRIFY stresses a reaction of horror or revulsion <was horrified by such wanton cruelty>. DAUNT suggests a cowing, disheartening, or frightening in a venture requiring courage <a cliff that would daunt the most intrepid climber>.