English Lexicon

Stupefaction

/ˌstjuː.pəˈfæk.ʃən/
nounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #15000 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    The state of being stupefied; a state of mental numbness or astonishment.

    "His stupefaction at the unexpected news left him speechless."
  2. 2

    A condition of being unable to think clearly due to shock or surprise.

    "The stupefaction in the room was palpable after the shocking announcement."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'stupefaction' originates from the Latin 'stupefactio', which is derived from 'stupefacere', meaning 'to make stupid or numb'. The term evolved through Middle French before entering English in the late 16th century, reflecting a shift from a physical state of numbness to a mental state of astonishment or shock.

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