Definitions

shock

[shok] / ʃɒk /

NOUN

complete surprise; blow

Synonyms

STRONGEST

awe bump collapse confusion consternation disturbance earthquake excitement impact injury jolt scare trauma

STRONG

bombshell breakdown clash collision concussion crash distress encounter hysteria jarring percussion prostration ram start stroke stupefaction stupor turn upset whammy wreck

WEAK

double whammy eye-opener traumatism

Antonyms

STRONGEST

calm calmness composure tranquility

WEAK

expectation

VERB

completely surprise

Synonyms

STRONGEST

agitate anger astound awe disgust dismay displease disturb flabbergast horrify insult jar jolt offend outrage overwhelm paralyze rock shake shake up sicken startle stun traumatize unsettle

STRONG

abash antagonize daze disquiet electrify flood floor nauseate numb overcome revolt scandalize stagger stupefy

WEAK

bowl over give a turn hit like ton of bricks knock out throw a curve

Antonyms

STRONGEST

appease calm expect

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

We saw Saudi Arabia shock Argentina in their opening game of the 2022 World Cup but they still finished bottom of their group.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Economists said May’s reading, which was in line with expectations, is likely to be the high water mark in the recent run-up in inflation from this year’s energy-price shock.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

“It was a shock to some people,” Den Herder said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

After appearing to end her glittering career four years ago, the 23-time Grand Slam champion stunned the sporting world on Monday with her shock announcement that she would compete in the Queen's Club doubles.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

The six of us stay silently huddled together in the darkness, waves of shock, fear and disbelief washing over us.

From "Code Name Kingfisher" by Liz Kessler

shock

Example Sentences

Related Words