Pronunciation: [wɜːɹ ˈɔːstɹʌk] (IPA) 
The phrase "were awestruck" is spelled as /wɜr ɔːstrʌk/. The first word, "were," is pronounced as "wur" with a short "u" sound, followed by "awestruck" which is pronounced as "aw-struhk" with the stress on the first syllable. The word "awestruck" means to be filled with wonder and amazement. It is commonly used to describe a feeling of being overwhelmed or stunned by something incredible or impressive.
"Were awestruck" is a phrase that describes a state of overwhelming amazement or astonishment experienced by someone or a group of individuals upon witnessing or encountering something truly remarkable or extraordinary. The term "were" implies that this feeling is shared among multiple people, emphasizing a collective sense of awe.
The word "awestruck" consists of two elements: "awe" and "struck." "Awe" refers to a feeling of reverence, fear, or respect mixed with wonder and often arises in response to something grand, breathtaking, or beyond ordinary human experience. "Struck" in this context suggests being emotionally and mentally impacted in a significant manner, as if struck or affected by a powerful force or event.
When individuals or a group "were awestruck," it means they were overwhelmed to the point of being temporarily speechless or deeply affected by something awe-inspiring. This could include witnessing a mesmerizing natural phenomenon like a breathtaking sunset, an awe-inspiring performance, or encountering an incredible act of bravery or outstanding accomplishment. In such instances, the feeling of being awestruck surpasses normal feelings of surprise or admiration, often leaving individuals spellbound or profoundly moved by the sheer magnitude, beauty, or impact of what they have witnessed. "Were awestruck" conveys a sense of being so amazed or impressed that it leaves a lasting impression on those who experienced it, evoking a deep sense of wonder and inspiring a profound appreciation for the remarkable and extraordinary.
The word "awestruck" is derived from the combination of two separate parts: "awe" and "struck".
The word "awe" can be traced back to the Middle English word "agh", which meant "terror" or "fear". Over time, "agh" evolved into "awe", referring to a feeling of reverential fear or wonder.
The word "struck" comes from the Old English word "struccan", which means "to strike" or "to beat". In the context of "awestruck", it conveys the idea of being deeply affected or moved by a sense of awe, as if being struck or hit by the intense emotion.
When these two parts are combined, "awestruck" gives the impression of being overwhelmed or struck with a profound sense of awe.
