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shock

/ʃɒk/

When used as a noun to describe a surprising event, it is usually countable (e.g., "a shock"). When referring to the medical condition, it is typically uncountable (e.g., "in shock"). As a verb, 'shock' is frequently used in the passive voice (e.g., "I was shocked") to describe a person's reaction to unexpected news.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Jessica is at her desk while Mark is pretending to be in a meeting.
Jessica

Did you see the budget cuts? I'm actually in shock right now.

Jessica
Mark
Mark

chill out jess. it is what it is.

💡
Jessica uses 'in shock' to express her extreme distress over a professional setback, while Mark uses the slang phrase 'it is what it is' to display his characteristic apathy and lack of concern.

Meanings

noun

A sudden upsetting or surprising event or experience.

"The news of the accident came as a complete shock to everyone."

noun

A medical condition brought on by a sudden drop in blood flow through the body.

"The patient went into shock after losing a significant amount of blood."

noun

A sudden strong surge of electric current.

"He felt a sharp shock when he touched the faulty wire."

verb (transitive)

To cause someone to feel surprised and upset.

"The graphic images in the documentary shocked the audience."

verb (intransitive)

To be suddenly surprised or horrified by something.

"I was shocked to discover that they had lied to me."

Related Words

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error