The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Countenance \Coun"te*nance\ (koun"t?-nans), v. t. [imp. & p. p.
   Countenanced (-nanst); p. pr. & vb. n. Countenancing.]
   1. To encourage; to favor; to approve; to aid; to abet.
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            This conceit, though countenanced by learned men, is
            not made out either by experience or reason. --Sir
                                                  T. Browne.
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            Error supports custom, custom countenances error.
                                                  --Milton.
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   2. To make a show of; to pretend. [Obs.]
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            Which to these ladies love did countenance.
                                                  --Spenser.
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