Extremely surprising or impressive; causing great wonder or amazement.
From Middle English astonen, from Old French estoner meaning 'to stun' or 'to thunder'. Originally meant to strike unconscious, like being hit by thunder. The sense of 'amaze' developed from this stunning effect.
The word 'astonishing' literally means 'thunderstruck' - it comes from the idea that something so surprising could knock you unconscious like a bolt of lightning. This thunderous etymology gives the word its explosive emotional power.
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