astound
UK[əˈstaʊnd]US[əˈstaʊnd]
v
to surprise or shock someone very much
Etymology
the word 'astound' carries the echo of a thunderclap within its history. it originates from the latin verb 'extonare', a compound of 'ex-' (thoroughly) and 'tonare' (to thunder), literally meaning to be struck as if by thunder. this powerful imagery passed into old french as 'estoner', conveying a state of being stunned or bewildered. entering middle english, the word evolved in form to 'astounen' and later to 'astound', its meaning crystallizing around the concept of overwhelming surprise, much like the shocking impact of a sudden, loud thunderclap.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form. it is derived from the middle english verb 'astounen' or 'astonien', which meant to stun or stupefy. this middle english term came from an old french variant 'estoner' (modern french 'étonner'), meaning to stun or amaze. the old french word ultimately traces back to the latin 'extonare', meaning 'to thunder' or 'to strike with thunder'.
Examples
the sheer scale of the ancient ruins will astound any visitor.
his ability to solve complex problems so quickly never fails to astound me.
the magician's final trick was designed to astound the entire audience.