Astonishment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

😲

Add to dictionary

astonishment

[əˈstɒnɪʃmənt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

feeling

Astonishment is the feeling of being very surprised or amazed.

Synonyms

amazement, shock, surprise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
astonishment	Use 'astonishment' to express a deep sense of wonder or amazement, especially when something is unexpected or rare. She was in astonishment when she saw the Grand Canyon for the first time
amazement	Amazement is often used in a positive context to describe feeling surprised in a delightful or impressive way. The children watched the magician with amazement as he pulled a rabbit out of the hat
surprise	Surprise can be used in both positive and negative contexts to describe the feeling of being caught off guard by something unexpected. She got a pleasant surprise when she found out she had won the lottery
shock	Shock is used to describe a strong and often negative reaction to something sudden or traumatic. He was in shock after hearing about the sudden passing of his friend

Examples of usage

He stared at her in astonishment.
To my astonishment, he showed up at the party.
The news of his resignation was met with astonishment by his colleagues.
She expressed her astonishment at the incredible performance.
I could see the astonishment in his eyes.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

reaction

Astonishment can also refer to the reaction of being surprised or amazed.

Synonyms

amazement, shock, surprise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
astonishment	Astonishment is used when someone is greatly surprised or impressed by something unexpected or extraordinary. She looked at the painting in astonishment His jaw dropped in astonishment when he won the lottery
amazement	Amazement is used when expressing great wonder or overwhelming surprise, often in a positive or awe-inspiring context. The audience watched in amazement as the magician performed his tricks His eyes were filled with amazement when he saw the Grand Canyon for the first time
surprise	Surprise is used when someone experiences something unexpected, whether positive or negative, but not as intense as shock. He expressed surprise at getting a gift from a stranger The sudden change in weather came as a surprise to us
shock	Shock is used when someone is suddenly and intensely surprised, often in a negative or traumatic context. She couldn't hide her shock when she heard the bad news The news of his sudden departure left everyone in shock

Examples of usage

Her sudden outburst caused astonishment among the guests.
The magician's tricks never failed to evoke astonishment from the audience.
The sudden change in weather led to widespread astonishment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'astonishment'

The word 'astonishment' originated in the late 16th century from the Old French word 'estonnement', which comes from the verb 'estoner' meaning 'to stun'. Over time, the word evolved to its current form in English, retaining the sense of being stunned or amazed.

See also: astonished, astonishing, astonishingly.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,900 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

...
8897 intricate
8898 exposing
8899 classify
8900 astonishment
8901 assimilation
8902 inertia
8903 engrossed
...