The phrase "be awestruck" is spelled as \bi ˈɔːstrʌk\. The first syllable, "aw", is pronounced with an open back unrounded vowel /ɔː/. The second syllable, "struck", is pronounced with a consonant cluster formed by the voiceless alveolar fricative /s/, followed by the voiceless alveolar plosive /t/ and the voiced velar approximant /r/. This phrase means to feel a sense of overwhelming admiration or wonder in response to someone or something.
To be awestruck is to experience an intense sense of wonder, admiration, or astonishment in response to something grand, remarkable, or mesmerizing. It is a state of being deeply moved, overwhelmed, or captivated by an extraordinary occurrence or entity that impresses and commands profound respect or reverence. When one is awestruck, they are completely taken aback and temporarily lose the capacity to express their amazement through words or actions.
The feeling of being awestruck often arises from encountering anything that is visually stunning, spiritually profound, or mentally transcendent. It can be evoked by witnessing the majestic beauty of nature, such as a vibrant sunset, cascading waterfall, or a vast mountain range. Similarly, it can be experienced when observing extraordinary human achievements, like a mesmerizing dance performance, a breathtaking artistic masterpiece, or an astounding scientific breakthrough.
Being awestruck often leads to a heightened emotional state in which one may feel a deep sense of humility, insignificance, or reverence. This feeling can lead to a greater appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the world and the mysteries it holds. Awestruck individuals may experience a profound shift in perspective or outlook, as if the awe-inspiring experience has altered their perception of reality.
Ultimately, to be awestruck is to encounter something that transcends the ordinary and leaves a lasting impression on the individual, filling them with a sense of wonder and admiration for the extraordinary.
The word "be awestruck" is a combination of two components: "awe" and "struck".
1. Awe: The term "awe" originated from the Old English word "ege" or "egeu", which meant fear or terror. Over time, the word evolved and took on a more positive connotation, referring to a feeling of profound reverence or admiration. It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*agiz", meaning "fright", and ultimately to the Proto-Indo-European root "*agh-", which had similar connotations.
2. Struck: The word "struck" comes from the Old English verb "strīcan", which meant to make a blow or to strike.