Gobsmacked

Gobsmacked (adjective / UK Slang)

(Also heard as: Gobsmacking, Gobsmack)

Definition:

Utterly astonished, so shocked or amazed that you are lost for words. It works for good surprises and bad ones.

Where It Comes From:

It is a mash-up of “gob”, British slang for the mouth, and “smacked”, as if the news hit you right in the face. It became part of everyday British speech in the late 20th century and is now widely understood well beyond the UK.

How People Actually Use It:

Used after big news, sporting upsets, surprise bills and unexpected compliments. Brits often pair it with “absolutely” or “completely”, and it is just as likely to be said on a quiet Tuesday as at a dramatic moment. It is not rude, so it is safe to use anywhere.

Examples in the Wild:

• “I was absolutely gobsmacked when they said I had won.”

  Meaning: I was so surprised that I could not speak.

• “Gobsmacked by the price of a pint in London.”

  Meaning: I was shocked at how expensive it was.

• “She turned up with a cake for the whole office and we were gobsmacked.”

  Meaning: Everyone was pleasantly surprised.

Similar Slang:

Shook, Flabbergasted, Stunned, Speechless, Astounded