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
In an era where custom builds increasingly rely on CAD renderings, algorithms, and social-media-friendly shock value, there's something refreshing about a builder spending countless hours shaping metal by hand to create something this gloriously unnecessary.
—
Utkarsh Sood
june 05, New Atlas, 5 June 2026
Horror tastes are shifting Scary movies used to be all about shock value.
—Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 1 June 2026
Yes, his cruelty lost its shock value over time, but his motivations always tracked.
—Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 20 May 2026
Low-rise jeans are making a comeback, and this time around, the trend is less about shock value and more about comfort, body proportions and personal flare.
—Casey Delbasso, ABC News, 18 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for shock value
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Utkarsh Sood
june 05, New Atlas, 5 June 2026
Horror tastes are shifting Scary movies used to be all about shock value.
—Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 1 June 2026
Yes, his cruelty lost its shock value over time, but his motivations always tracked.
—Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 20 May 2026
Low-rise jeans are making a comeback, and this time around, the trend is less about shock value and more about comfort, body proportions and personal flare.
—Casey Delbasso, ABC News, 18 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for shock value
Cite this Entry
“Shock value.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shock%20value. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.
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