flabbergast

Pronunciation: /ˈflæbɚˌɡæst/

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. verb overcome with amazement

Etymology

The origin of the verb is uncertain; possibly dialectal (Suffolk), from flabby or flap (“to strike”) + aghast. The word may be related to Scottish flabrigast (“to boast”) or flabrigastit (“worn out with exertion”). The noun is derived from the verb.

In classic literature

Synonyms

boggle, bowl over

Semantic network

Broader (hypernyms)
surprise

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