The word "astonished" is pronounced as /əˈstɒnɪʃt/. This word is spelled with the suffix "-ed" which is added to the stem "astonish". The "a" in the first syllable is pronounced as a schwa sound /ə/. The stress is on the second syllable "-ton-" which is pronounced with the sound /ɒ/. The final syllable "-ish-" is pronounced as /ɪʃ/. Together, the word means to be extremely surprised or amazed. Spellings like "astounded" or "amazed" are similar meanings for this word.
The term "astonished" refers to a state of extreme surprise, wonder, or amazement. When an individual is astonished, they experience a profound sense of disbelief and awe at something unexpected or remarkable, often accompanied by a physical or emotional reaction. The feeling of astonishment arises when an event, situation, or revelation deviates significantly from one's expectations or previously held beliefs.
Astonishment often manifests itself through facial expressions, such as widened eyes, dropped jaws, or raised eyebrows, along with other non-verbal cues like gasping or freezing in place. It can also elicit verbal responses, such as exclamations, stammering, or even momentarily rendered speechless.
This intense emotional response to astonishment can be triggered by various occurrences, such as witnessing a breathtaking spectacle, observing an extraordinary feat, or encountering a staggering revelation. The feeling of astonishment is characterized by a temporary suspension of rational thought as the individual processes the unexpected information or situation.
The impact of astonishment can vary from person to person, depending on their temperament, cultural background, and past experiences. Some may quickly recover from astonishment, while others may remain captivated or overwhelmed for extended periods. Astonishment can also lead to further curiosity, sparking a desire to investigate and understand the underlying causes or implications of the surprising event or revelation.
Ultimately, the experience of astonishment serves as a reminder of the vast and extraordinary world that exists beyond one's anticipated or predictable realm of existence.
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The word "astonished" has its roots in the Old French word "estoner", which means "to stun" or "to strike with thunder". It was derived from the Latin verb "extonare", which has a similar meaning. Ultimately, "astonished" can be traced back to the Latin words "ex" (meaning "out") and "tonare" (meaning "to thunder").