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Dictionary.com
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.

The move exacerbates global economic damage, with an oil shock already affecting Asia and with Gulf countries facing significant GDP shrinkage.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

One is the powerful shock waves generated when meteorites slam into the planet's surface.

From Science Daily • Apr. 12, 2026

Former staffers in Swalwell’s congressional office traded messages in group texts after the news reports, with many expressing shock and horror at the allegations, according to two former employees.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

"For anybody that came in contact with this individual, it was a shock."

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

When I told Mama where you were traveling, she dropped a whole platter of biscuits from the shock of it.

From "The Detective's Assistant" by Kate Hannigan