stun
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /stʌn/
KK: /stʌn/
noun
Definition
A blow or shock that makes someone unable to think clearly or act normally.
Example
The sudden loud noise caused a stun that left everyone momentarily confused.
Conversation
Did you see that magic show last night?
Yeah, it was amazing! The stun from his final trick left everyone speechless.
I couldn't believe my eyes when he made that car disappear!
Right? The whole audience was in a state of stun.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
shock
jolt
blow
Antonyms
calm
comfort
relief
transitive verb
Definition
To make someone unable to think clearly or feel anything for a short time, often by hitting them or by a loud noise.
Example
The loud explosion stunned everyone in the vicinity.
Tense Forms
Past: stunned
Past Participle: stunned
Conversation
Did you see that magic trick? It really stunned the whole audience!
I know, right? I couldn't believe my eyes when he made that car disappear.
Exactly! The way he did it was so smooth, it was hard to follow.
Root Explanation
Stun originates from Middle English 'stunnen', which is derived from Old English 'stunian', meaning to make a loud noise or to be stunned. The word describes the action of causing someone to be momentarily unable to react, often due to shock or surprise.
Memory Tip
Think of being so shocked or surprised that you can't react — that's what 'stun' means.
Visually Confused Words
stoun
staun
tun
sun
stu
strunt
strung
stound