Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Consternation \Con`ster*na"tion\, n. [L. consternatio, fr.
   consternare to overome, perplex, an accessory form of
   consternere to trow down, prostrate; con + sternere to spread
   out, throw down: cf. F. consternation. See {Stratum}.]
   Amazement or horror that confounds the faculties, and
   incapacitates for reflection; terror, combined with
   amazement; dismay.

         The chiefs around, In silence wrapped, in consternation
         drowned. Attend the stern reply.         --Pope.

   Syn: Alarm; fright; amazement; astonishment; surprise; panic;
        perturbation. See {Alarm}.

Source : WordNet®

consternation
     n : fear resulting from the awareness of danger [syn: {alarm}, {dismay}]