Need another word for Shocking? Use these synonyms of Shocking from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
astonishing
astounding
staggering
remarkable
unbelievable
incredible
amazing
startling
surprising
disturbing
upsetting
frightening
alarming
terrifying
horrifying
appalling
dreadful
ghastly
gruesome
heinous
atrocious
scandalous
outrageous
disgusting
repulsive
sickening
nauseating
distasteful
unpleasant
disagreeable
offensive
objectionable
shocking
distressing
perturbing
troubling
disquieting
unnerving
unsettling
Meaning of Shocking
The primary meaning of "shocking" is causing a strong feeling of surprise, disturbance, or disgust.
Definitions
- Causing a strong feeling of surprise, disturbance, or disgust because it is unexpected, unpleasant, or unacceptable
- Causing a sudden or intense emotional reaction, especially one of shock, horror, or outrage
- Highly unpleasant or disturbing, often in a way that is considered unacceptable or offensive
Etymology of Shocking
The word "shocking" has its roots in the verb "shock," which originated in the 17th century from the Old French word "choquer," meaning to collide or clash
Initially, the word "shock" referred to a sudden or violent impact, but over time, its meaning expanded to include emotional or psychological impacts
The adjective "shocking" emerged in the 18th century to describe something that causes a strong emotional reaction, often characterized by surprise, disgust, or horror
Example Uses
- The news of the natural disaster was shocking, and it left many people feeling helpless and distraught
- The film's graphic content was shocking, and it sparked a heated debate about censorship and artistic freedom
- The revelation of the company's corrupt practices was shocking, and it led to a massive overhaul of the organization's leadership and policies