shock value

noun

: usefulness to surprise and usually upset people

He uses offensive language for (its) shock value.

Examples of shock value in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But these scenes are filmed with such playfulness that the shock value is completely dissipated. — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 31 July 2026

Despite its shock value, the move does not come as a surprise. — Gaurav Sharma, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026

This is yet another movie that aims rather clumsily for shock value by dwelling on consumption and meat, like many a grisly eating-disorder horror opus of late. — Dennis Harvey, Variety, 30 July 2026

Unlike with other far-right groups that seek out confrontation or to counterprotest, Patriot Front’s activities appear designed entirely for shock value and to create moments that are widely viewed online—the images are the point. — Ali Breland, The Atlantic, 8 July 2026

Rhymes for shock value

• eigenvalue
• undervalue