Horrorstruck is a compound word made up of 'horror' and 'struck'. The word means feeling extreme terror or shock. The spelling of this word can be explained using the IPA phonetic transcription: /ˈhɒrəstrʌk/. The stress is on the first syllable, denoted by the apostrophe, and the 'o' in 'horror' is pronounced as a short vowel sound /ɒ/. The 'ck' at the end of the first part of the word is pronounced as a soft /k/ sound, while the second part 'struck' is pronounced as /strʌk/.
Horrorstruck is an adjective used to describe a state of extreme fear, shock, or astonishment. When someone is horrorstruck, they are overwhelmed by a feeling of intense horror or terror. The term is derived from the combination of the words "horror" and "struck," suggesting a sudden and forceful impact of terror on an individual's emotional state.
The word horrorstruck can be used to describe a wide range of intense reactions. Someone might become horrorstruck upon witnessing a gruesome crime scene, encountering a terrifying creature, or experiencing a shocking event. It implies a momentary paralysis or a feeling of being frozen in fear, as the person's mind and body are stunned by what they have seen or experienced.
In literature, horrorstruck is often used to depict moments of high suspense and terror. It is frequently employed to create a dramatic effect, heightening the emotional impact of a scene and leaving the reader or audience in a state of anticipation or dread.
In summary, horrorstruck describes an overwhelming feeling of fear or shock, often resulting from a horrifying or traumatic event or situation. It captures the essence of being paralyzed with terror, depicting a moment of extreme emotional intensity that leaves a lasting impression on the person affected.
The word "horrorstruck" is a compound word formed by combining "horror" and "struck".
- "Horror" originated from the Latin word "horror" meaning "dread, trembling, shivering", which was derived from the verb "horreo" meaning "to tremble, to shudder". It entered the English language in the late 14th century, referring to a feeling of extreme fear or terror.
- "Struck" comes from the Old English word "strīcan" meaning "to hit, to strike", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*strikōną". It entered the English language in the 13th century, primarily used to describe the action of hitting or striking something.
When these two words are combined, "horrorstruck" refers to a state of being struck or affected by horror or extreme fear.