1. to make (someone) feel embarrassed, confused, or disconcerted; to disturb the composure of
Usage: transitive verb; formal or literary
2. to refuse to approve of or support; to discourage or disapprove
Usage: transitive verb; archaic or formal

Examples

• The unexpected question discountenances the speaker, causing him to pause.
• Her critical remarks discountenances his confidence in the project.
• The teacher's stern look discountenances the misbehaving students.
• Nothing discountenances her composure during difficult interviews.
• The committee discountenances any proposal that lacks proper documentation.
• His awkward silence discountenances the entire room.
• She discountenances behavior that violates the school's code of conduct.