Shock
/ʃɒk/noun
A sudden, violent disturbance or a state of sudden surprise, fear, or disbelief.
Did you know?The English word shock is ultimately tied to the idea of a violent collision, and its history shows how physical impact turned into the language of emotional trauma and surprise.
Etymological Timeline
16th Century
French
choc
“A clash, collision, or violent impact”
Late Middle French
French
choquer
“To strike, jolt, or collide”
16th Century
English
shock
“A violent blow or collision”
18th-19th Century
English
shock
“Sudden emotional disturbance, surprise, or distress”
Modern English
English
shock
“A sudden disturbance of the body, mind, or nerves; also, something startling or upsetting”