[coun.te.nance] n [ME contenance, fr. MF, fr. ML continentia, fr. L, restraint, fr. continent-, continens, prp. of continere to hold together--more at contain] (13c) 1 obs: bearing, demeanor
2. a: calm expression b: mental composure c: look, expression 3 archaic a: aspect, semblance b: pretense
4: face, visage; esp: the face as an indication of mood, emotion, or character
5: bearing or expression that offers approval or sanction: moral support
[2]countenance vt -nanced ; -nanc.ing (1568): to extend approval or toleration to: sanction -- coun.te.nanc.er n