stunned
Stunned (adj) means dazed, shocked, or momentarily unable to react. Example: “She sat in stunned silence after hearing the verdict.”
How to Use Stunned
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIn a daze from shock or surprise.
Word Forms
more stunned comparative, most stunned superlative
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
She sat in _____ silence after hearing the verdict.
Related Words
Rhymes for stunned
See all rhymes for stunned →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “stunned” mean?
The word “stunned” means dazed, shocked, or momentarily unable to react. In plain terms, in a daze from shock or surprise.
How do you pronounce “stunned”?
“Stunned” is pronounced stuhnd (/stʌnd/ in IPA).
How do you use “stunned” in a sentence?
Here is “stunned” used in a sentence: “She sat in stunned silence after hearing the verdict.”
What part of speech is “stunned”?
“Stunned” is an adjective.
Is “stunned” a common word?
“Stunned” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between stunned and shocked?
Stunned describes being dazed or momentarily unable to react, often implying a brief loss of mental or physical composure, as after surprising or forceful news. Shocked can describe a similar reaction but often carries a stronger emphasis on emotional disturbance or disbelief. Stunned tends to emphasize the temporary inability to respond.
Can stunned describe a physical as well as an emotional state?
Yes, stunned can describe someone dazed by a physical blow, such as being stunned by a fall, as well as someone dazed by surprising news or events. Both uses share the sense of a temporary inability to think or act clearly.
What words typically follow stunned in a sentence?
Stunned is often followed by "by" or "into," as in "stunned by the news" or "stunned into silence." These constructions show the cause of the dazed reaction or its immediate effect.