gobsmacked
GOB-smakt
/ˈɡɒb.smækt/
So surprised or astonished that one is physically or mentally stunned.
Vividly physical; metaphorically conveys clapping a hand over one's open mouth in total shock.
The story behind the word. Originating in 20th-century British and Irish dialect, combining 'gob' (Gaelic 'gob' for beak/mouth) and 'smacked'. It evokes the literal physical reaction of slapping your hand over your mouth when shocked.
Word relationships
- speechless: 'Speechless' is neutral and descriptive; 'gobsmacked' is vivid British slang.
- indifferent: Feeling completely unexcited or unbothered.
Commonly confused with
- dumbfounded: 'Gobsmacked' is informal/slang; 'dumbfounded' is standard vocabulary.
Word family
- gobsmack (verb): To shock or surprise immensely (less common verb form).
Collocations
- utterly gobsmacked
- absolutely gobsmacked
- left gobsmacked
Idioms & expressions
- smack in the gob
Example sentences
- "When she won the international lottery, she was left utterly gobsmacked." Personal Reaction
Memory hook
Your hand SMACKS your GOB (mouth) when you hear mind-blowing news. Slapping your own mouth in shock.
When not to use
Do not use in formal academic prose or corporate policy documents.
Fun facts
- Although rooted in old dialects, 'gobsmacked' exploded into widespread mainstream English popularity during the 1980s via British television.
Related words
Explore more words
flummoxed, nonplussed, consternation, breathtaking, confounded, bewildered
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