gobsmacked

English

Etymology

As if smacked (“hit”) in the gob (“mouth (Irish / Scottish gaelic)”).

Attested since 1980s, from Northern English dialect, particularly Liverpool, popularized via television.

Adjective

gobsmacked (comparative more gobsmacked, superlative most gobsmacked)

1. (chiefly UK, slang) Flabbergasted, astounded, speechless, overawed.
   • 1989, Glenn Frankel, "Salman Rushdie's Life on the Run," Los Angeles Times, 7 Aug.,

     We were as appalled and stunned and confused and gobsmacked (punched on the mouth) as anyone else.

   • 2008, Caroline Mallan, "Linwood Barclay novel wins a plug on key UK book list," Toronto Star, 16 Jun., p. A2,

     "I guess the word would be gobsmacked," Barclay said, of his reaction. "I am stunned."

Related terms

• gobsmacking
• gobstruck (much less common)

Translations

Flabbergasted, astounded, speechless, overawed

Russian: потрясённый (ru)