Dictionary entry

Astonishment

Webster's Dictionary 1913

As‐ton″ish‐ment (�), n. [Cf. OF. estonnement, F. étonnement.] 1. The condition of one who is stunned. Hence: Numbness; loss of sensation; stupor; loss of sense.

A coldness and astonishment in his loins, as folk say.

Holland.

2. Dismay; consternation. Spenser.

3. The overpowering emotion excited when something unaccountable, wonderful, or dreadful is presented to the mind; an intense degree of surprise; amazement.

Lest the place

And my quaint habits breed astonishment.

Milton.

4. The object causing such an emotion.

Thou shalt become an astonishment.

Deut. xxviii. 37.

Syn. — Amazement; wonder; surprise.