The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

astounded

IPA:

Dictionary definition of astounded

To be greatly surprised, shocked, or astonished.
"He was astounded to discover a hidden treasure buried in his backyard."

Detailed meaning of astounded

When someone is astounded, they experience an overwhelming sense of amazement, disbelief, or awe. It signifies a reaction of being deeply impressed or taken aback by something unexpected, extraordinary, or remarkable. The verb "astounded" conveys a higher degree of surprise and impact compared to simply being surprised or amazed. It often manifests as a strong emotional response, leaving individuals temporarily speechless, wide-eyed, or in a state of disbelief. Astounding can occur in various situations, such as witnessing an exceptional achievement, hearing astonishing news, or encountering something that defies common expectations or understanding. The verb "astounded" captures the sense of overwhelming surprise and astonishment, emphasizing the powerful and remarkable nature of the experience or event that elicits such a reaction.

Example sentences containing astounded

1. The breathtaking view from the mountaintop astounded the hikers.
2. She was astounded by the incredible talent displayed during the music concert.
3. The students were astounded by the magician's mind-bending tricks.
4. The scientist's groundbreaking discovery astounded the entire scientific community.
5. They were astounded when their favorite band announced a surprise concert.
6. The unexpected plot twist in the movie astounded the audience.

History and etymology of astounded

The adjective 'astounded' has its etymological roots in the word 'astound,' which evolved from Old English and Middle English. In Old English, 'astonian' meant 'to stun' or 'to amaze.' This word underwent changes in Middle English and became 'astounden,' retaining the sense of causing someone to be greatly surprised or shocked. While 'astounded' is primarily an adjective used to describe a state of being greatly surprised, it is closely related to the verb 'astound,' which signifies the action of causing astonishment or amazement. The etymology of 'astounded' emphasizes the historical connection between the sensation of being stunned or amazed and the state of surprise and astonishment that this adjective describes in contemporary English.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective astounded:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of astounded

1. The crowd was astounded as the acrobat performed daring stunts high above.
2. She was astounded by the generosity of strangers who helped her during a difficult time.
3. The speed and precision of the athlete's performance astounded the spectators.
4. The surprise party organized by his friends astounded him on his birthday.
5. The intricate details in the artwork astounded art enthusiasts and critics alike.
6. She was astounded by the breathtaking beauty of the sunrise.
7. The unexpected news left him astounded and speechless.
8. Their generosity astounded everyone at the charity event.
9. I was astounded by the talent displayed at the art exhibition.
10. The magician's tricks astounded the entire audience.
11. Her remarkable achievements astounded her peers.
12. We were astounded by the vastness of the Grand Canyon.
13. The sudden applause from the crowd astounded the shy singer.
14. The scientist was astounded by the groundbreaking discovery.
15. The intricate details in the painting astounded art critics.
16. The speed of the racing car astounded spectators.
17. His knowledge of ancient history astounded his professors.
18. The gourmet chef's culinary creations astounded diners.
19. The clarity of the telescope's view astounded astronomers.
20. The acrobat's daring stunts astounded the circus-goers.
21. The final plot twist in the movie left the audience astounded.
22. The precision of the surgeon's work astounded the medical team.
23. Her dedication to the cause astounded her fellow activists.
24. The scale of the disaster astounded emergency responders.
25. The rare gemstone's brilliance astounded gem collectors.