appall

This verb conveys a visceral reaction of shock combined with a sense of moral outrage or profound disgust. It is stronger than simply being surprised or upset, suggesting a feeling of being overwhelmed by the sheer horror or inappropriateness of a situation. It is frequently used in formal contexts, such as news reports or political speeches, to condemn unethical behavior or catastrophic events.

While it describes an internal emotional state, the word often functions as a social signal of disapproval. When someone says they are appalled, they are not just expressing fear, but are making a value judgment that the subject is unacceptable or abhorrent.