flabbergasted

IPA

Dictionary definition of flabbergasted

Extreme surprise, astonishment, or bewilderment.
"The unexpected plot twist in the movie left the audience flabbergasted."

Detailed meaning of flabbergasted

When someone is flabbergasted, they are taken aback or left speechless by something unexpected, shocking, or astonishing. It implies a level of disbelief or incredulity, often accompanied by a sense of being overwhelmed or dumbfounded. Flabbergasted captures a profound and intense reaction to an event, news, or circumstance that is beyond what one could have anticipated or imagined. It denotes a momentary loss of composure or the inability to find words due to the sheer magnitude or unexpectedness of the situation. The term "flabbergasted" conveys a sense of being utterly amazed, stunned, or floored, leaving a lasting impression on the individual experiencing it.

Example sentences containing flabbergasted

1. I was flabbergasted when I won the lottery and became an instant millionaire.
2. The magician's tricks left the audience flabbergasted and in awe.
3. She was flabbergasted when her long-lost friend suddenly appeared at her doorstep.
4. The unexpected plot twist in the movie left me completely flabbergasted.
5. My parents were flabbergasted when I told them I was dropping out of college to pursue my passion.
6. The chef's innovative and delicious dish left the food critics flabbergasted.

History and etymology of flabbergasted

The adjective 'flabbergasted' has a somewhat unclear etymology, but it is believed to be a humorous and whimsical word that was created in the English language. It likely combines elements of various English words, possibly blending 'flabby,' meaning soft or loose, with 'aghast,' meaning filled with shock or horror. The exact origin and formation of 'flabbergasted' remain uncertain, but it effectively captures the sense of extreme surprise, astonishment, or bewilderment. The word conveys the idea of being so astonished that it feels as though one's figurative or emotional 'flabbiness' has been shaken or jolted by the unexpected. Despite its uncertain origins, 'flabbergasted' has become a commonly used term to express profound surprise and amazement.

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Further usage examples of flabbergasted

1. I was flabbergasted when I saw my favorite celebrity walking down the street.
2. The incredible acrobatic performance left the crowd flabbergasted and cheering for more.
3. The detective was flabbergasted when he uncovered the real identity of the mysterious culprit.
4. The breathtaking view from the mountaintop left us flabbergasted and speechless.
5. I was flabbergasted when I opened the door and found a puppy waiting for me.
6. The astonishing magic trick left the children at the birthday party flabbergasted and clapping with joy.
7. The news of her promotion left her flabbergasted and filled with excitement.
8. I was flabbergasted when my favorite band played a surprise concert in my hometown.
9. The incredible talent of the young pianist left the judges flabbergasted and impressed.
10. The astonishingly high score on the test left the entire class flabbergasted.
11. The unexpected act of kindness from a stranger left me flabbergasted and grateful.
12. I was flabbergasted when I discovered that my long-lost relative had left me a vast inheritance.
13. The elaborate fireworks display left the crowd flabbergasted and mesmerized.
14. The mind-blowing magic trick left everyone in the audience flabbergasted and wondering how it was done.
15. She was flabbergasted when she discovered her long-lost sibling.
16. The magician's disappearing act left the audience flabbergasted.
17. I was flabbergasted by the breathtaking view from the mountaintop.
18. The surprise party thrown for her birthday left her flabbergasted and touched.
19. The sudden announcement of his resignation left everyone flabbergasted.
20. I was flabbergasted by the size of the giant cake that was wheeled into the room.
21. The talented musician's performance left the judges flabbergasted.
22. The incredible acrobatic stunts in the circus show left the audience flabbergasted.
23. The clever twist ending of the mystery novel left readers flabbergasted.
24. The news of their engagement left family and friends flabbergasted with joy.