Shock Meaning and Definition

Shock

Shock

Pronunciation

/ʃɒk/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A sudden, strong movement of electric charge or influence, typically painful or unpleasantly startling.

Examples

  • The sudden shock of cold water surprised me.
  • The electric shock lasted only a fraction of a second.

Synonyms

  • Jolt
  • Stun

Antonyms

  • Relaxation
  • Soften

Etymology

The word “shock” comes from the Old English word “scōc”, meaning “to strike” or “to hit”. It has evolved to encompass a range of meanings related to sudden, strong movements or influences.

Usage Notes

Shock can be used to describe a sudden and intense physical or emotional experience. For example, a person may be in shock after witnessing a traumatic event.

Cultural References

Shock has appeared in popular culture in various forms, such as in science fiction and action movies, where characters may experience electric shock or other forms of shock.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • Rough shock
  • Electric shock therapy

Related Words or Phrases

  • Stun gun
  • Electric current

Collocations

  • Electrical shock
  • Pharmaceutical shock

Frequency of Use

Shock is a commonly used word in everyday language, particularly in describing sudden and intense physical or emotional experiences.

Common Misspellings

  • Shocke
  • Shoque

Related Words