It is used to describe a person who is deeply startled, frightened or horrified by something unexpected or deeply disturbing. When someone is aghast, they may have an expression of shock or dismay on their face, and may be speechless or at a loss for words. Aghast can be used to describe a person's reaction to something they have seen, heard or experienced. It can also be used to describe a person's emotional state after a traumatic event. For example, one may be aghast after learning about a tragic accident or a devastating natural disaster. Aghast can also be used to describe an inanimate object that is surprised or dismayed, such as an aghast statue or aghast building.