sticker shock

noun

: astonishment and dismay experienced on being informed of a product's unexpectedly high price

Examples of sticker shock in a Sentence

We left the store suffering severe sticker shock.

Recent Examples on the Web

Although announced long ago, a new 6 percent Erie County sales tax delivered sticker shock on concession and souvenir receipts. — Tim Graham, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026

Summary Apple is facing rising component costs ahead of the iPhone 18 Pro launch, yet aims to protect its profit margins without significant consumer sticker shock. — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2026

But their sticker shock for American consumers is becoming increasingly clear – just as economic sentiment is souring ahead of the November 2026 midterm elections. — Kent Jones, The Conversation, 13 Aug. 2026

That's some serious sticker shock, especially given that the Mini 5 Pro costs $759. — Jim Fisher, PC Magazine, 10 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1981, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sticker shock

• aftershock
• antiknock
• arawak
• hollyhock
• interlock
• manioc
• shuttlecock
• tomahawk
• weathercock
• alcock
• beanstalk
• bedrock