stun

1 of 2

verb

ˈstən 

stunned; stunning

transitive verb

1

: to make senseless, groggy, or dizzy by or as if by a blow : daze

2

: to shock with noise

3

: to overcome especially with paralyzing astonishment or disbelief

stun

2 of 2

noun

: the effect of something that stuns : shock

Synonyms

Verb

• daze
• rock

Examples of stun in a Sentence

Verb

The angry criticism stunned them.

His old friends were stunned at his success.

She sat in stunned disbelief.

There was a stunned expression on her face.

weapons that can stun people temporarily

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

The rising rates of auto, home and health insurance have stunned consumers and left them looking for someone to blame. —David Faris, Newsweek, 27 Dec. 2024

Like several coaches around the league, Kerr was stunned to hear the news. —Danny Emerman, The Mercury News, 27 Dec. 2024

Arizona stunned the Rams, scoring three touchdowns before the Rams had gained a first down. —Adam Grosbard, Orange County Register, 27 Dec. 2024

Beyoncé stunned in an all-white, studded bodysuit paired with chaps, red-bottom glittering silver boots—a combo that felt equal parts high fashion and Texan flair. —Shelby Stewart, Essence, 26 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Verb

Middle English stonen, stunen, from Anglo-French estoner — more at astonish

First Known Use

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1727, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing stun

• stun grenade
• stun gun

Kids Definition

stun

verb

ˈstən

stunned; stunning

1

: to make senseless or dizzy by or as if by a blow

2

: to overcome with astonishment or disbelief

stunned by the news

stun noun

Medical Definition

stun

transitive verb

ˈstən 

stunned; stunning

: to make senseless, groggy, or dizzy by or as if by a blow