Synonyms of astonishment

astonishment

noun

ə-ˈstä-nish-mənt 

1

as in amazement

the rapt attention and deep emotion caused by the sight of something extraordinary

the Midwesterner's astonishment at seeing the ocean for the first time

Synonyms & Similar Words

• amazement
• admiration
• wonderment
• wonder
• awe
• disbelief
• fascination
• reverence
• excitement
• shock
• fear
• incredulity
• surprise
• dread
• curiosity
• interest
• veneration
• respect
• incomprehension
• enlightenment
• stimulation
• absorption
• engrossment
• immersion
• animation
• captivation
• enchantment
• involvement
• enthrallment
• invigoration
• engagement
• bewitchment
• beguilement

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• indifference
• disinterest
• unconcern
• apathy
• boredom
• restlessness
• weariness
• tiredness
• ennui
• tedium
• melancholy
• incuriosity
• listlessness
• doldrums
• weltschmerz
• cheerlessness
• joylessness
• dispiritedness

2

as in shock

the state of being strongly impressed by something unexpected or unusual

the suddenness of the thunderstorm left the picnickers in a state of astonishment

Synonyms & Similar Words

• amazement
• shock
• surprise
• stupefaction
• dismay
• wonderment
• confusion
• startlement
• awe
• wonder
• bewilderment
• consternation
• startle
• discomfiture

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of astonishment

The revelation itself becomes part of the artwork, shifting the experience from astonishment to reflection and encouraging a more critical examination of the assumptions that shape everyday life. — Y-Jean Mun-Delsalle, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026

To the astonishment of many a Bobhead, Dylan’s guitarist Doug Lancio was replaced in Santa Barbara by Julian Lage, the youngish jazz star known for his work with Gary Burton and John Zorn. — Mikael Wood, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026

Talking naturally to an AI that understands context, remembers previous conversations and controls my house may have garnered astonishment and commentary. — New Atlas, 14 June 2026

Swilling beers from sponsor Corona, the hosts marveled at the turnaround, expressing the same astonishment that Larry David, Ben Stiller and other fans were showing on the ABC telecast. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 13 June 2026