Entry Word: astonishment

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 the rapt attention and deep emotion caused by the sight of something extraordinary <the Midwesternerʼs astonishment at seeing the ocean for the first time> — see wonder 2
2 the state of being strongly impressed by something unexpected or unusual <the suddenness of the thunderstorm left the picnickers in a state of astonishment> — see surprise 2