astounded

UK: əˈstaʊndɪd | US: əˈstaʊndɪd

Definition
  1. adj. filled with overwhelming shock or amazement

  2. vt. past tense of "astound" – to shock or greatly surprise someone

Structure
a <intensive prefix>stound <to strike, from Old English "stunian">ed <past participle suffix>
Etymology

The word "astounded" originates from the intensive prefix "a-" (emphasizing action) combined with "stound," an archaic term meaning "to strike" or "stun," derived from Old English stunian. The suffix "-ed" marks it as a past participle. Historically, the idea was of being "struck" by surprise, akin to a physical blow, which evolved into its modern sense of overwhelming amazement.

Examples
  1. She was astounded by the magician’s incredible trick.

  2. The audience sat astounded as the singer hit the high note perfectly.

  3. He looked astounded when he saw the final exam results.

  4. The scientist was astounded by the unexpected discovery.

  5. They were astounded at the sheer size of the ancient pyramid.