You’ve probably heard the word gobsmacked, but do you know what it means? To be gobsmacked is to be completely shocked. If you’d like to know more, keep reading this article because we’ll also talk about its origins and correct usage.
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What Is Gobsmacked?
Gobsmacked (pronounced gob-smakt) is an adjective indicating that someone is utterly astounded. It originated as a British slang term in the 1930s. Gob is slang for “mouth,” and smack is to strike. For that reason, we often associate being gobsmacked with being so surprised as to be speechless.
Although it started as British slang, it has become common in America and other countries where people speak English.
Example sentences:
- I was so gobsmacked by her rude behavior that I was at a loss for words.
- He was gobsmacked to learn he had been the victim of identity theft.
- Seeing the damage wrought by the tornado left everyone gobsmacked.
- Were you gobsmacked when you saw the bill after dinner at that high-end steakhouse?
Gobsmacked Synonyms
If you like the idea of gobsmacked but also like having alternatives, there’s good news. Gobsmacked has a lot of synonyms.
- Astonished
- Astounded
- Blindsided
- Dumbfounded
- Flabbergasted
- Floored
- Shocked
- Staggered
- Stunned
- Thunderstruck
When and How to Use Gobsmacked?
Gobsmacked is common in both spoken and written conversations, including in text messages and online. However, since it’s a slang term, consider using synonyms or related words instead.
The word is also appropriate for both positive and negative things. Winning the lottery exemplifies the former, and getting a shockingly high estimate for a car repair exemplifies the latter.
You can also use the related form gobsmacking. It’s an adjective as well, but it describes what causes someone to be gobsmacked.
Example:
- The gobsmacking secret life uncle led had all of our family reeling in disbelief.
You should only use this word in cases of extreme surprise. For instance, saying you were gobsmacked when a light bulb went out is a misuse of the word.
An exception to the above could be when you’re expressing sarcasm. Say you have a co-worker who’s chronically late. Telling that person you’re simply gobsmacked that they’re late once again is okay, though it might seem rude.
Is It Godsmacked or Gobsmacked?
People sometimes use Godsmacked, apparently because they confuse the b sound for a d. This is a misspelling and a mispronunciation. Technically, it is saying that God struck you. Some people might find this funny, but believers might find it offensive.
How to Remember the Correct Spelling?
Gobsmacked is the only correct spelling and pronunciation. Association gob with mouth as slang for the latter helps you remember the correct spelling. After all, no one calls their mouth their God. (Maybe, except for people who love to hear themselves talk!)
It also might help to associate gob with gobble, which can make you think of eating and your mouth.
Gobstopping vs Gobsmacked: What’s the Difference?
The ideas behind these two words are similar; both involve great surprise, and both are adjectives. The difference is that gobsmacked describes the person who’s utterly surprised, while gobstopping describes the thing causing the astonishment.
Example:
- The gobstopping truth of the mild-mannered neighbor’s past left everyone on our street utterly gobsmacked, almost beyond belief.
Final Thoughts
Gobsmacked is an adjective that indicates extreme surprise, sometimes to the point of speechlessness. Correct usage of it means you only apply it to situations of extreme seriousness and not minor surprises. It originated as a British slang term, but it’s now common just about everywhere that people speak English.
