nonplusation

alternative nonplussation

1. uncommonuncountableThe quality of being nonplussed.First known use 19th c.

   They reside in a state of nonplusation more aware than reason, more trying than insanity.

   1982, Canadian Literature, numbers 92-95, page 24

   2 more examples

   When the voiture stopped in the village, there seemed to be a nonplusation, to coin a word for the nonce, between my friend and his sisters.

   1834, Michael Scott, Tom Cringle's Log, volume 1, page 33

   When William Rufus returned by moonlight to claim his prize, with Cervantist nonplusation he beheld Edith Matilda — dressed like a novice, kneeling before her altar, counting her beads, with candles burning.

   1955, The Artesian, volumes 1-2, page 14