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Stupefaction: meaning, definitions and examples

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stupefaction

 

[ ˌstjuː.pɪˈfæk.ʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

state of shock

Stupefaction refers to a state of being stunned or amazed to the point of being unable to think or respond. This overwhelming feeling typically arises from surprising or shocking events. It can manifest in situations where someone is taken aback by unexpected news or experiences. The term underscores a temporary loss of cognitive function due to intense emotions. Stupefaction often leads to a period of reflection or disbelief before one can regain composure and react appropriately.

Synonyms

astonishment, bewilderment, daze, shock, stupefying

Examples of usage

  • Her stupefaction was evident when she received the award unexpectedly.
  • He stared in stupefaction at the news report detailing the bizarre incident.
  • The audience was in a state of stupefaction after the shocking finale of the show.

Translations

Translations of the word "stupefaction" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estupefação

🇮🇳 अचंभा

🇩🇪 Erstaunen

🇮🇩 keterkejutan

🇺🇦 застиглість

🇵🇱 osłupienie

🇯🇵 驚愕 (きょうがく)

🇫🇷 stupéfaction

🇪🇸 estupefacción

🇹🇷 şaşkınlık

🇰🇷 경악

🇸🇦 ذهول

🇨🇿 úžas

🇸🇰 úžas

🇨🇳 惊愕 (jīng'è)

🇸🇮 osupelost

🇮🇸 undrun

🇰🇿 таңырқау

🇬🇪 შოკი (shoki)

🇦🇿 təəccüb

🇲🇽 estupefacción

Etymology

The term 'stupefaction' emerged in the early 19th century from the combination of the prefix 'stupe-' derived from the Latin word 'stupefacere', meaning 'to make stupid, to stun', and the suffix '-tion' which denotes a state or condition. The root 'stupe' is related to 'stupidus', meaning 'stupid' or 'dull' in Latin. As language evolved, 'stupefaction' began to be used in English to describe an overwhelming state of astonishment or shock that leaves an individual in a sort of dazed or stunned condition. This term captures not just surprise but also the cognitive paralysis that can accompany it, illustrating the depth of emotional and mental impact certain experiences can have on individuals.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,616 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.