shocking

adjective

shock·​ing ˈshä-kiŋ How to pronounce shocking (audio)
: extremely startling, distressing, or offensive
shocking news
shockingly adverb

Examples of shocking in a Sentence

The number of young teenagers who smoke is shocking. a shocking waste of money The building is in a shocking state.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Contract disputes involving All-Pro members of the Dallas Cowboys are hardly shocking this time of year. Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Aug. 2025 The Too Much creator recently shared her vision for a film based on the shocking affair between Tom Sandoval and Rachel Leviss that was unpacked during the Bravo reality show’s Season 10 reunion in 2023, as Sandoval’s estranged ex Ariana Madix had the chance to confront them both. Glenn Garner, Deadline, 2 Aug. 2025 Among them, star shortstop Carlos Correa waived his no-trade clause to return to the Houston Astros in the team’s most shocking move at the deadline. Betsy Helfand, Chicago Tribune, 1 Aug. 2025 The Astros disagreed, bringing him back from the Twins in a shocking deal. Levi Weaver, New York Times, 1 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shocking

Word History

First Known Use

1653, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shocking was in 1653

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shocking.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shocking. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

shocking

adjective
shock·​ing
: causing horror or disgust
a shocking crime
shocking behavior
shockingly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on shocking

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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