Astonishing

Definition

Astonishing describes something that causes great surprise or amazement, often in a way that is unexpected or impressive.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈstɑːnɪʃɪŋ/
• Respelling: uh-STAH-nish-ing

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈstɒnɪʃɪŋ/
• Respelling: uh-STON-ish-ing

The pronunciation of "astonishing" varies slightly between American and British English, particularly in the vowel sounds.

Etymology

The word "astonishing" comes from the verb "astonish," which originated from the Old French "estoner" and Latin "extonare," meaning "to strike with thunder." This word is formed by combining "ex-" (out) and "tonare" (to thunder), suggesting something that figuratively strikes with awe or amazement.

Derivatives

• Astonish (verb)
• Astonished (adjective)
• Astonishment (noun)
• Astonishingly (adverb)
• Unastonishing (adjective)

Synonyms

• Amazing
• Incredible
• Astounding

Antonyms

• Ordinary
• Unremarkable
• Expected

Usage

The word "astonishing" is commonly used to describe something remarkable or surprising. For example, "The magician's performance was astonishing," or "She made an astonishing recovery after the surgery."

Related Terms

• Amazement: A feeling of great surprise or wonder.
• Marvel: Something that causes wonder or astonishment.
• Wonder: A feeling of surprise mixed with admiration.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Causing great surprise or amazement: Used to describe something that significantly surprises or impresses people.
  • Example: "The scientific discovery was truly astonishing."